The AfroNews No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011

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No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 I Tel. 020 7300 7320; 020 7300 7321; 07846062331 I Email: [email protected]

Keep legal aid for vulnerable groups, Government told

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THE GUIDESix main ways in which legal action can be

fundedpage 13

Create room for models of colour

Community leaders call for action against

black deaths in custody

page 3

Use regulated immigration advisers, says Suzanne McCarthy, Immigration Services Commissioner

Exclusive interview with model Vicky Ngari-Wilson, a very proud mother

pages 10 - 11

Meshell Ndegeocello shares intimate thoughts in “Weather”

page 17page 8

FREE PRESS

PRECIOUS Award 2011 winners announced

page 7

Western Union joins forces with global music artists to make people’s days better. Tell us how you would make someone’s day better and you could win the equivalent of $1000 to make it happen.Log on to worldofbetters.com

2 No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.eu

AFRONEWS | My Own Media Ltd. The Old Fire Stati on, 140 Tabernacle Street, London, EC2A 4SD, United Kingdom | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Stephen Ogongo Ongong'a | TEL: +44 (0)20 7300 7320 or +39 06 94354517 |Fax: 0207 253 23 06 | Email: [email protected] | CONTRIBUTORS: Chinwe Ojielo, Amanda Hall-Davis, Joseph Spencer, Pauline Long & Frances Mensah Williams | ADVERTISING: TEL: 020 7300 7320; 07846062331 | Email: [email protected] | DISTRIBUTION: Citi post Direct Distributi on Ltd, London | Email: [email protected] | PRINTING PRESS: Newsfax Ltd, London. | Adverti ser and adverti sing agency assume liability for all content (including text representati on, illustrati ons, and photographs) of adverti sements printed or posted, and also assume responsibility for any claims arising there from made against the publisher | Supplement of Africa News, Registered at the Tribunal of Rome. Registrati on No. 22/2003 - 21-01-2003

LOUIS

Louis Armstrong, Charlie Chaplin and the birth of jazz

A brand new silent film, with live music written by Wynton Marsalis, receives its European premiere at the London Jazz Festival.

The streets of New Orleans provide an evocative backdrop as a young Louis Armstrong navi-gates the colourful intricacies of life in the quintessential jazz city.

Marsalis’s score is played by a hand-picked ensemble of some of the composer’s closest associ-ates, directed by trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, including saxo-phonist Wes Anderson, and drum-mer Herlin Riley, contributing a spirited counterpoint to director Dan Pritzker’s stunning Chaplin-inspired movie.

As Louis spent part of his childhood around a brothel, the

visual element of this perfor-mance contains some nudity and scenes of a sexual nature, which are not appropriate for children.

There is also a matinee at 3pm.

WHERE ACTION IS

Archie Shepp, Joachim Kuhn and Empirical at Southbank Centre

Archie Shepp is nothing less than a giant of jazz - a revered figure at the centre of the 1960s jazz avant-garde, who along with Pharoah Sanders and Marion Brown, is among a select group of post-Coltrane ‘New Thing’ saxophone revolutionaries.

The recently released, beau-tifully languorous duo album “Wo!Man”, a remarkably tender set of deeply poetic music, brings him together with pianist Joachim Kuhn - a key figure in the evolution of European jazz.

MOBO award-winning quartet Empirical perform from

their new album “Elements of Truth”, combining white-hot improv, fluid timing and off-kilter grooves, taking jazz tradi-tion into the future with style. In this event they team up with the gifted and hugely resourceful pianist Robert Mitchell.

This is an evening packed with energy and talent, showcasing the very best the capital has to offer in up-and-com-ing performers.

Are you a singer, rapper, dancer, comedian, or spoken word artist looking to take that next step and perform in front of a live audience? If so then Allsortz is for you! Take to the Big Stage at Rich Mix and show what you’re working with!

Organisers of the event are still looking for acts to perform in the first show, so if you know somebody or you are that some-body then get in contact.

If you would like to be involved please email a brief description of your work, and any relevant links (e.g. Soundcloud, Myspace, YouTube) to [email protected]

Allsortz at Rich Mix

Wycliffe Gordon - trom-bone and tuba Wes Anderson - saxAdrian Cunningham - saxPhilip Dizack - trumpetJumaane Smith - trumpet Ehud Acherie - pianoReginald Veal - bassHerlin Riley - drums

13th November 2011 8:00pm Barbican, Silk Street, London, EC2Y 8DSTel: 020 7638 8891Tickets: £25, £20, £10 + bkg

FULL LINE-UP

Kokumo’s delivery will obviously draw compari-sons to Mutabaruka but there is an originality of style that will appeal to audiences worldwide.

Hailing from the parish of

Trelawny, better known as the Cockpit Country, in rural Jamaica, Kokumo’s powerful voice allows his words to take flight. With a name meaning, “this one will not die” in Yoruba, his work will be around forever.

Kween Nefatiti is a Singer/Songwriter/Dancer, born in Birmingham. Growing up in the 70’s with the influence of Roots n Culture, Soca, Jazz & Gospel music, she began per-forming as a child. Since win-ning an amateur Singing com-petition in London in 1999, her vocal versatility has gone from strength to strength...Kween Nefatiti’s unique sound & warm ambiance mesmerise you, taking you on a journey to your soul.

Kokumo and Kween Nefatiti Simeon at The Drum

12th November 20118pmThe Drum144 Potters Lane, AstonBirmingham, B6 4UU£6 (£4)Pit and Café BarTelephone: 0121 333 2400http://www.the-drum.org.uk/

KOKUMO AND KWEEN NEFATITI SIMEON

17th November 2011 7:30pm Southbank Centre/Queen Elizabeth Hall, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8 XXTel: 0844 875 0073Tickets: £25, £20, £10 + bkg

ARCHIE SHEPP, JOACHIM KUHN AND

EMPIRICAL

14th November 20117pmFree Rich Mix 35 - 47 Bethnal Green Road, London, E1 6LABox Office: 020 7613 7498

ALLSORTZ

3No. 24. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.euCOMMUNITY

Community leaders call for action against black deaths in custodyJasper: “Colour of your skin dictates what justice your receive”

Community leaders have called for action against black deaths in custody. Addressing a recent pub-lic meeting in London, the lead-ers said time had come to put rhetoric into action.

The meeting was organised by Matilda MacAttram, Director of Black Mental Health UK, and Sherelle Davis, London School of Economics Students Union Anti-Racism Officer.

On the panel were family members of those who had died in custody, community leaders including race equality campaigner Lee Jasper, Olu Alake, President of 100 Black Men of London and Frederick Clarke, Director of Mighty Men of Valour.

The meeting was also addressed by Ken Ferro who co-directed the film “Injustice” which highlighted the issue of

deaths in custody, and Helen Shaw, Co-Director of INQUEST, a charity that provides free advice service to bereaved people on contentious deaths.

Mr. Alake said deaths in police custody should be made a political issue as liberties are being taken over black men’s lives.

Referring to the recent riots in London, he said: “The initial issue that brought about this, which the press, which the Prime Minister, which the politicians, have tried very hard for us to forget, is this: a black man was unlawfully killed in the custody of police, and yet what we have seen on the covers of newspapers, what has been the source of outrage for our politicians hasn’t been that; it’s a building in Croydon that has stood for over 100 years.”

He said that the authorities are more worried about the building than the life of a black person. “We got more answers from what has happened when shops were burnt down, than we got when a family stood outside a police station for four hours, just asking for someone to come out and explain what happened to their child,” Mr. Alake said.

Mr. Jasper also voiced his opinions on how the media handled Mark Duggan’s death. “We don’t get the kind of press that we deserve and what does it result in? We get Mark Duggan shot dead. We get reports from the Independent Police Complaints Commission colluding with the Metropolitan Police Service, which phoned up their mates in Scotland Yard, in order to get a frontline headline that said he shot officers when he didn’t; he didn’t do that. I don’t care if Mark Duggan was Al Capone. He had a human right to be arrested, taken to court, charged with any criminal offence,

and faced judgment like the rest of us. Not shot down in the street like the way he was.”

Mr. Jasper went on to describe what he saw as a two-tier policing approach. “We want justice equally dispensed, regardless of the race of the individual, but we don’t live in a meritocracy, we live in a society where the colour of your skin dictates what justice you receive. Where you live dic-tates what policing you receive. If you’re in Richmond, or in the nice leafy areas of Wimbledon, it’s one sort of policing. If you’re in Peckham, Brixton or Tottenham, you get a distinctly other brand of polic-ing.”

Marcia and Samantha, sisters to Sean Rigg, a mental health patient who died in custody told of their Justice and Change Campaign, seeking justice for their broth-er. “In one church there’s three of us, so that shows you what an epidemic this is,” said Samantha Rigg-David.

Ms. MacAttram made a plea for people to understand the consequence of taking away a key figure in a child’s life.

The meeting was also addressed by a youth pastor Nathan John. Pastor John was seven years old when his father Orville Blackwood died in psychiatric custody in 1991. He grew up worrying whether he’d have mental health issues. “What was taken away from me is something that I think every child should have. It doesn’t matter who my father was, whether he was a good man or a bad man; I should have access to him.”

Mr. Ferro spoke about how he faced opposition making the film “Injustice”. He said: “We’ve had a few screenings where senior police officers have come down, and what they always say is: ‘we’re learn-

ing the lessons, we’re learning the lessons.’ Now then how stupid do you have to be to be engaged in a practice for 40, 50 years, before you learn the lessons?”

Mr. Ferro continued. “They’re not learning the lessons; they’re learning a practice of how to avoid getting criminally prosecuted. That’s what they’re learning all the time with everything they do and we do; they’re trying to get one step ahead.”

To find out more about the work of Black Mental Health UK, please log on to: www.blackmentalhealth.org.uk.

To order the “Injustice” DVD please log on to: www.injusticefilm.co.uk and for advice and support on black deaths in cus-tody, please visit www.inquest.org.uk

By Chinwe Ojielo

Mr. Lee Jasper, race equality campaigner, Ms. Matilda MacAttram, Director of Black Mental Health UK and Mr. Frederick Clarke, Director of Mighty Men of Valour

“We want justice equally dispensed, regardless of the race of the individual, but

we don’t live in a meritocra-cy, we live in a society

where the colour of your skin dictates what justice

you receive. Where you live dictates what policing you

receive. If you’re in Richmond, or in the nice leafy areas of Wimbledon, it’s one sort of policing. If

you’re in Peckham, Brixton or Tottenham, you get a dis-tinctly other brand of polic-

ing”

Mr. Lee Jasper,Race equality campaigner

http://www.theafronews.eu/black-community/blog

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4 No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.eu COMMUNITY

Africa Rocks Expo celebrates the best of Nigerian culture

The best of Nigerian culture was celebrated at this year’s Africa Rocks Expo.

Held on Sunday 23rd October at London’s Hotel Russell, 10-piece group London Afrobeat Collective kick started the live entertainment, which also saw performances by Nigerian musicians including X-factor’s Rachel Adedeji.

Visitors heard Olympic Gold medallist Christine Ohuruogu MBE, and Edna Agbarha, star of TV’s The Apprentice talk as panellists in the seminar ‘Meet inspira-

tional Nigerian Females’. Other seminars were focused on oppor-

tunities in Nigeria, Nollywood and Nigerian media, while stalls displayed African prints, bags, food and businesses.

Of all the options on show to see and be inspired by, it was the fashion show which drew in the biggest crowds. Designs gracing the runway included urban street style creations by Mr Gamz, Kamondi Couture’s tailored suits and shirts for women and Calliste Couture’s bridal and special occasion wear.

One designer who’s creations garnered

great praise was Fée Uhssi’s collection. Inspired by the African art of wrapping, where one piece of fabric can be worn in multiple ways, her designs mixed African and European ethically sourced fabrics.

“Most of my designs are reversible, multi-functional. It’s all about metamor-phosis, transformation and being able to wear the same garment in many different ways,” said Fée who sources her fabrics from West Africa. “Most of my fabrics are coming from Mali because I am support-ing a charity called Bolo’no which means handmade. The aim of the charity is to

promote and preserve natural cotton from Africa and traditional techniques of fabric making.”

Part of her production is made in Africa in collaboration with the charity and local tailors. For the production in the UK, she works alongside London based charity HEBA Women Project, who help women from Asia integrate in the UK.

By Chinwe Ojielo Pictures by Nico Sign Connexion

Picture

5No. 24. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.euCOMMUNITY

Richard Taylor OBE, father of murdered school-boy Damilola Taylor was among the winners at this year’s Gathering of Africa’s Best Awards (GAB).

On Sunday 23rd October, Mr. Taylor was presented with the award for Youth Engagement in the African Community at London’s Hilton Paddington hotel.

South London based organization, Youth Against Crime not Crime Agains t You (YACnCAY) won in the Youth Empowerment category. It’s delighted founder Toyin Idowu said of winning the award: “I really thank the good, merciful and faithful Lord!”

The GAB Awards seek to promote a posi-tive image of Africa and Africans around the world.

Richard Taylor wins GAB Award

KBS to launch Domestic Violence Awareness Program for church leaders

Kim Bacchus Solutions (KBS) is launching a dynamic Domestic V i o l e n c e A w a r e n e s s Program.

Domestic violence within churches is a big issue with a small voice. Both men and women can feel unable to talk about their experience of domestic violence, even with the people closest to them, and as a result do not receive the help they need. This leaves them in a danger-ous and potentially life-threatening situation on a day to day basis.

Furthermore, perpetrators of domestic violence are being left to continue committing this crime unnoticed. Churches need to pro-vide the opportunity for both vic-tims and perpetrators of domestic violence to receive help.

You are invited to attend the official launch of the KBS Domestic Violence Training Program, for Pastors and Leaders serious about tackling this issue and bringing about a positive change. The program will be launched on 19th November 2011

at iCAN, 35 Monier Road, Bow, London E3 2PR. Admission is free. For more information and to register, please visit www.kim-bacchus.com.

You may also send an email to [email protected] or dial 07961 500 625.

6 No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.eu COMMUNITY

Croydon to host Black Youth Achievements Awards ceremony The Awards recognise talents and accomplishments of young black people in UK

The Black Youth Achievements (BYA) Awards ceremony will be held in Croydon, South London, on 19th November 2011, at Jury’s Inn Hotel.

The BYA Awards celebrate the achievements of young people of Black Caribbean/Black African parentage in the UK between the ages of eight and 25.

Founded in 2008, the BYA Awards set out to recognise and reward the talents, positive actions and personal accomplishments of black youth.

More often than not, black youth are misrepresented as under-achievers or involved in criminal activities and are rarely acknowl-edged for their everyday successes and contributions within industries such as education and business.

The BYA Awards challenge this per-ception and are proud to promote the real image of young black individuals and cre-

ate strong role models for future genera-tions.

The BYA Awards are aspiring to be the UK’s premier ceremony of recognition for

young people and look forward to hosting the event nationally from 2012.

This year the awards ceremony will be held in Croydon, South London; an area

which suffered significant dam-age during the civil unrest in August.

The 3rd BYA Awards and Croydon will be part of an eve-ning that will celebrate our amazing young people, revers-ing the negative association that has been portrayed of youth not just locally but around the coun-try.

Nominees, their friends and families, sponsors, media and guests alike will enjoy a 3-course dinner specially pre-pared for the occasion and then share in the excitement as the 2011 winners are announced. With special performances and speakers, the evening promises to entertain, educate and exhila-rate.

BYA Awards tickets are available to purchase on www.blackyouth-achievements.org. The ticket price includes dinner, awards ceremony and showcase.

Report: Don’t let involvement with mental health service slow down

Mental health groups fear that barriers between statutory bodies and BME service user initiatives could result in disengagement, a new report has revealed.

A review of the re-released report ‘Dancing to Our Own Tunes’ (TOOTS) which was launched on 1st November by the National Survivor User Network (NSUN) and The Afiya Trust, says the momentum of BME service user involvement must not slow down.

The report identi-fies a number of bar-riers affecting the relationships between statutory bodies and user involvement ini-tiatives. Following recommendations in the original report, an advisory TOOTS group produced set guidelines and a char-ter to ensure good partnership working between both parties.

One guideline in particular is the rec-ognition of the role of service user experi-ences in making them experts in their own right to inform the

nature of partnership working and the solu-tions to challenges.

In relation to effective user involve-ment the report recommends linking work to change mental health services with broader race and rights based initiatives in education, forensic services, citizenship rights, social inclusion, employment, income generation, etc.

It also rec-o m m e n d s building rela-

t i o n s h i p s between main-stream groups and black and minority ethnic groups, between communities and between profes-sionals and ser-vice users/survi-vors.

The report further recom-mends enabling p ro fe s s iona l s from Black and minority ethnic communities to think about race related issues in their practice.

Groups and o rgan i sa t ions working locally should be

actively sought, the report says, adding that their work should be highlighted and supported.

Sarah Yiannoullou, NSUN Manager, said: “The findings and recommenda-tions in the 2008 report are as relevant today as they were when the consulta-tions were done. There is a renewed onus on national organisations with resourc-es and capacity to support local groups to ensure that the momentum built over the years is not destroyed by funding cuts and policy shifts.”

Patrick Vernon, Chief Executive of The Afiya Trust, said: “This report launches the TOOTS charter and guidelines for involve-ment. It comes at a crucial time when both user involvement and the race equality agenda are underplayed and sidelined in mental health policy. It is our responsibili-ty to ensure that the service user movement as a whole and black and minority ethnic user movement in particular are supported to continue doing the great, and sometimes difficult, work they do in challenging and changing the mental health system.”

Jayasree Kalathil, author of the report and a research consultant, said: “In many ways, service user self-determination and leadership have grown considerably over

the years. However, regardless of the rhet-oric around putting patients first in the government’s policy papers, user involve-ment structures and policies are being dis-mantled across the board.”

Dr. Kalathil observed that the new mental health policy says nothing about taking forward the legacy of the Delivering Race Equality programme. “The shake-up of the welfare and benefits system and cuts to support like legal aid, advocacy and peer support organisations have left many service users vulnerable. I would like to see the recommendations in the report, the charter and the guidelines taken seriously by the policy makers and organisations they work with in strategic forums.”

Dancing toour own tunesDancing toour own tunesReassessing black and minority ethnicmental health service user involvement

“The shake-up of the welfare and benefits system and cuts

to support like legal aid, advocacy and peer support

organisations have left many service users vulnerable. I

would like to see the recom-mendations in the report, the

charter and the guidelines taken seriously by the policy makers and organisations they work with in strategic

forums”

Dr. Jayasree Kalathil,Author of ‘Dancing to Our

Own Tunes’ (TOOTS) report

7No. 24. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.euCURRENT AFFAIRS

PRECIOUS Award 2011 winners announced

Cameron sends support for unique entrepreneurial awards ceremony for women of colour

Member of Parliament for Streatham Chuka Umunna scooped the PRECIOUS Man of the Year Award at the 5th Annual PRECIOUS Awards in London.

The awards ceremony took place on 27th October at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel and was supported by The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).

Mr. Umunna, who is the Shadow Minister for Business, Innovation and

Skills dedicated his award to his constituents and his moth-er.

The PRECIOUS Awards recognise the achievements of inspirational and entrepre-neurial women of colour.

To mark five years of cel-ebrating success, this year a range of new categories were introduced including the PRECIOUS Man of the Year and Lifestyle awards in rec-ognition of the brands that had made a mark on the com-munity over the last year.

“These awards are about recognising and honouring the success women of colour have achieved in business and leadership,” Foluke Akinlose MBE, Founder of the PRECIOUS Awards said. “I am really looking forward to seeing how these winning businesses grow and develop over the coming months and years and how our mentor and leadership winners con-tinue to support and lead by example.”

Ms. Akinlose added that being nominated and win-ning an award at the PRECIOUS Awards “carries

enormous prestige and credibility as the entre-preneurial community celebrates the achieve-ments of inspirational women of colour.”

In a message to the organisers of the PRECIOUS Awards, Prime Minister David Cameron, said: “I am delighted once again to give my support to the PRECIOUS Awards and to congratulate those who use their talent and initia-tive to start a business. Your awards will help to create great role models for others to follow. This is vital work and you have my full support.

“This event, now in its 5th year, continues to cel-

ebrate the con-tribution that Black and Asian female entrepre-neurs make to the UK economy and I hope that this continues and grows in the f u t u r e . Congratulations to all the final-ists and all those involved in orga-nising, support-ing and partici-pating in this p r e s t i g i o u s event.”

The judging panel for the P R E C I O U S Awards 2011 included Heather Melville, a R e g i o n a l Director at RBS and Sandie Okoro, General Counsel, Baring A s s e t M a n a g e m e n t Limited. They were joined by L a x m i H a r i h a r a n , Marketing and R e s e a r c h Director for E m e r g i n g

Markets EMEA, NBC Universal, and Michael Clarke, National Diversity Manager at the Environment Agency.

“I am delighted once again to give my support to the Precious Awards and to

congratulate those who use their talent and initiative to

start a business. Your awards will help to create

great role models for others to follow. This is vital work and you have my full sup-

port”

Prime Minister David Cameron

BUSINESS Start-Up Business of the YearSadia Sisay and Sumana Mukhopadhyay - Being U Social Enterprise Business of the YearRioch Edwards-Brown - So You Wanna Be In TV?

Best BusinessLotwina Farodoye - Be Fruity Young Entrepreneur of the YearLauren Craig - Thinking Flowers Mentor of the yearProfessor Laura Serrant-Green - Director of Research and Enterprise, Centre for Health and Social Care Improvement - University of Wolverhampton Inspiring Leadership within the WorkplaceRonke Lawal - Chief Executive - Islington Chamber of Commerce The Hidden Gem Award (Sponsored by RBS)Camille Johnson - Pink Ribbon Lingerie LIFESTYLE The PRECIOUS Blogger of the YearThe Musings of Ondo Lady The PRECIOUS Man of the YearChuka Umunna, MP, Shadow Minister for Business, Innovation and Skills Beauty Brand of the YearSleek The PRECIOUS Hair Brand of the YearMizani The PRECIOUS Digital Romance AwardiPad2

WINNERS OF PRECIOUS AWARD 2011

Ms. Sadia Sisay and Ms. Sumana Mukhopadhyay - Being U, the PRECIOUS Entrepreneurs of the Year 2011

Mr. Chuka Umunna, MP, Shadow Minister for Business, Innovation and Skills - the

PRECIOUS Man of the Year

8 No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.eu CURRENT AFFAIRS

500 colleges can no longer bring international students to UKTough new rules and enforce-

ment action to stop abuse of the student visa has made nearly 500 colleges lose the right to bring new international students to the UK to study.

The colleges – a number of which were bogus and did not offer genuine courses - could have brought more than 11,000 stu-dents into the UK to study each year.

New UK Border Agency regulations have raised the standards education pro-viders must meet to sponsor international students. So far, 474 colleges have lost their right to recruit international students after they failed to sign up for the new inspection system. UKBA said that the new standards will help ensure genuine international students get a good quality education in the UK.

A related UK Border Agency investiga-tion into more than 100 colleges has led to 51 having their licences revoked. The investigation followed a surge in applica-tions from South Asia just before the English language requirement rules were

tightened earlier this year. More than 4,500 of these applications to study have been refused or withdrawn as a result.

Officials encountered evidence of clear abuse. One student interviewed to test his English skills answered almost every ques-tion with the word ‘hello’.

At another college staff turned the lights off and hid when inspectors called and one college was unable to provide any timetables of classes or registers of stu-dents enrolled. A Norfolk-based college had students whose home address was recorded as Glasgow.

Immigration Minister Damian Green said: “Widespread abuse of the student visa system has gone on for too long and the changes we have made are beginning to bite.

“Too many institutions were offering international students an immigration ser-vice rather than an education and too many students have come to the UK with the aim of getting work and bringing over family members. Only first-class education pro-viders should be given licences to sponsor international students.”

Mr. Green added that they have curbed the opportunities to work during study and bring in family members. “We have also introduced new language requirements to ensure we only attract genuine students whose primary motivation is to study.”

As well as going through tough new inspections, colleges that want to keep bringing in international students must also meet new higher sponsorship stan-dards to ensure they are fulfilling their immigration responsibilities. Those who do not meet these standards will be removed from the sponsorship register.

The UK Border Agency has also cre-ated a list of more than 2,000 banks and financial institutions who can no longer provide evidence to verify a student has sufficient funds for their course. If a bank is on the list, a student citing that institu-tion will not be granted a visa.

Further measures to tighten student visa rules are due in April next year. The post study work route, which allowed overseas students to work after graduation will be closed and students wishing to work will need to apply for a work visa.

There will also be new time limits on student visas and tougher rules on work placements. The UK Border Agency will monitor the behaviour of all sponsors and take action against any that are not com-plying with standards of education provi-sion or immigration control.

Make sure you use regulated immigration advisersImmigration Services Commissioner explains how to check that the adviser is regulated

All immigrants in the UK who are considering seeking immigration advice or services should make sure they use a regulated immigration advis-er, says Suzanne McCarthy, the Immigration Services Commissioner.

In the UK it is illegal for anyone to give immigration advice or services without being regulated.

The Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) pro-tects those who may need the advice or services of an immigration adviser.

“My Office deals with any issues where an immigration adviser might be involved. These include giving advice and assistance to those already in the UK about their status as well as assisting others who are seeking help with respect to settlement applications, nationality and citizenship issues; EU and EEA immigration matters; fiancé and marriage applications; children and dependent relatives issues; busi-ness and other visitor queries; and asylum applications and detention or enforcement. The OISC also regulates those who provide assistance to spon-sors under Tiers 2 and 4 of the Points Based System,” Mrs. McCarthy says.

If you are considering using someone to give you immigration advice, Mrs. McCarthy suggests you check that the per-son is regulated. You can do this by going to the OISC’s website www.oisc.gov.uk and clicking on “Find an adviser”.

You should also look for the OISC cer-tificate and OISC global tick logo – these are only issued to OISC approved advisers,

and both should be on prominent display at the adviser’s premises.

“For your own protection, make sure your adviser is regulated by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) or in England and Wales by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, the Bar Council or the Institute of Legal Executives. As the Immigration Services Commissioner I ensure that only fit and competent people are allowed to work as OISC regulated

immigration advisers. There are just under 2,000 OISC regulated organisations cur-rently operating in the UK.”

Mrs. McCarthy also advises that: “All OISC advisers must keep up to date with relevant law and the immigration rules, abide by the Commissioner’s Code of Standards and Rules and maintain proper records”.

And you should remember that no one can guarantee that your application will be approved – even if you use a regulated immigration adviser, Mrs. McCarthy says.

The OISC as a regulator

does not itself give immigra-tion advice.

The OISC also handles c o m p l a i n t s about immigra-tion advisers. All complaints received are treated as confi-dential. Mrs. McCarthy sug-gests that: “If you are unhap-py with the ser-vices of your i m m i g r a t i o n adviser, you can complain to the OISC. Making a complaint will not affect any application you have made or intend to make

to the United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA)”.

For your free copy of the OISC’s General Information Leaflet (available in 15 languages), go to the OISC’s website at www.oisc.gov.uk and click on “OISC Documents” or call 020 7211 1500 or 0845 000 0046.

The Immigration Services Commissioner operates completely independently of the Home Office and the UK Border Agency (UKBA). Her accountability is directly to the Home Secretary and through her to Parliament.

“For your own protection, make sure your adviser is regulated by the

Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) or in England

and Wales by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, the Bar

Council or the Institute of Legal Executives. As the Immigration

Services Commissioner I ensure that only fit and competent people are

allowed to work as OISC regulated immigration advisers. There are just under 2,000 OISC regulated organi-

sations currently operating in the UK”

Mrs. Suzanne McCarthy,Immigration Services

Commissioner

http://www.theafronews.eu/news/blog

Check outlatest immigration

and other news affectingthe Black Community on:

9No. 24. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.eu

UK Border Agency loses track of 124,000 asylum seekersUK Border Agency has lost

track of 124,000 asylum seekers, the equivalent of the population of Cambridge, a new report by the Home Affairs Committee has revealed.

The Committee’s report shows that the UK Border has not resolved all of the asy-lum ‘legacy’ cases first identified in 2006 within the promised five year timeframe. Instead, 18,000 ongoing cases are still awaiting a final decision.

The Committee also expressed concern at the dramatic increase in files transferred to the “controlled archive” in the past six months. The files, which are placed in the archive when every effort to track an appli-cant has been exhausted, numbered 40,500 in March 2011. By September 2011, it had increased to 124,000.

The Committee has recommended that guidance be produced on the management of the controlled archive and has stated with conviction that any further rise in the number of files transferred to the archive will be considered a failing on the part of

the Agency.The Committee also criticised the UK

Border Agency for failing to explain why 350 foreign national prisoners due to be deported are still in the country.

The Agency provided the Committee with a breakdown of the issues with the deportation process of 1,300 prisoners who were released between 1st April 2010 and 31st March 2011. The largest group, mak-ing up 27% of the total, was labelled ‘unknown’.

The MPs also criticised the Agency for its inability to disclose how many individ-uals were removed from the country due to intelligence provided by members of the public.

The Committee emphasised the impor-tance of intelligence provided to the Agency in stopping abuse of the system, but warned that unless the public can see that the Agency uses the intelligence pro-vided, it will simply lead to further public frustration with the immigration system as a whole.

The Committee objected to the Agency’s use of the euphemistic term

“controlled archive” to describe the appli-cants with whom it has lost contact. It would be more appropriate, the Committee said, to describe it as the archive of lost applicants.

The MPs were surprised by the claim that the UK Border Agency does not rec-ognise the term “bogus college” given that the Home Office recently released a press notice which focused on colleges which had their licences revoked, some of which were described as ‘bogus’.

The Government should commission a detailed investigation into financial waste, including the writing-off of bad debts, overpayments to staff and asylum appli-cants, and failure to collect civil penalties, the Committee said.

MPs also called for better liaison between the Agency and HM Prison Service to ensure that foreign national prisoners are deported, where appropriate, rather than released into the community.

Noting that the Agency is losing too many appeals at immigration tribunals, the MPs urged the Agency to raise the quality of its representation and commit to being

represented at every hearing so that the case for refusal can properly be made.

The Agency needs to ensure that all their staff are aware of the existence of “bogus colleges”, which exist only to sponsor visa applications, the MPs said.

Rt. Hon Keith Vaz MP, Chairman of the Committee said: “The UK Border Agency is still not providing the efficient, effective service that Parliament expects. The so-called ‘controlled archive’ has become a dumping ground for cases where the UK Border Agency has lost track of the applicant. From 18,000 files last November, it has now grown to 124,000—the equiva-lent of the population of Cambridge.

“The Prime Minister himself recently called for members of the public to provide intelligence on immigrants. There is little point in encouraging people to do this if the border agency continues to fail to man-age the intelligence it receives or to keep track of those who apply to stay. A fit for purpose immigration system needs to keep track of applicants rather than allowing them to go missing.”

CURRENT AFFAIRS

Keep legal aid for vulnerable groups, Refugee Council tells government

The Refugee Council is disappointed that the gov-ernment is continuing with its proposals to slash legal aid, leaving some of the most vulnerable people in society, including asylum seekers and refugees with-out access to justice.

The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill which passed through the House of Commons early this month at report stage, outlines the govern-ment’s proposals to cut legal aid for asylum support cases and fam-ily reunion cases for refugees, amongst other areas.

One positive change to the Bill has meant people facing indis-criminate violence, unlawful kill-ing or execution in their own country, as well as those fleeing persecution, will be eligible for legal aid in certain circumstances.

Earlier this year, the Refugee Council responded to a govern-ment consultation on the proposals, calling for the government to reconsider its propos-als. The charity has also supported the Law Society’s Sound Off for Justice campaign, which offers the gov-ernment alternative cost savings without denying people legal support.

“We are extremely frustrated that our rec-ommendations for ensuring asylum seek-ers and refugees have access to legal aid have been dismissed,” Donna Covey, Chief Executive of the Refugee Council said.

“In particular, it is concerning that refu-gees attempting to bring their families here are being treated as straightforward immi-gration cases, and will not be eligible for legal aid to challenge the government, which has been shown to get the majority of first decisions on these claims wrong. Refugee cases will undoubtedly be com-plex, with families stuck in countries where they are being persecuted or are missing – these people need legal support to ensure their applications for family reunion will be considered.”

Although pleased that legal aid will be extended to those faced with indiscrimi-nate violence and those facing persecution in their own countries, Refugee Council is concerned that there are many circum-stances in which these people will have nowhere to turn for access to justice. “While we know cuts must be made, there are alternatives to allowing the most vul-nerable people to go without the legal help they need. We strongly urge the House of Lords to now reconsider these proposals,” Refugee Council said.

10 No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.eu COVER

Vicky Ngari-Wilson is a model, a stylist and an entrepreneur. She is a former Miss East Africa UK, Miss Kenya UK and Exquisite Face of the Universe. Vicky who enjoys creating events and doing PR is working on creating a char-itable foundation.

Vicky and her mother have created ‘N’ya’ jewellery, a brand of contemporary authentic African brass designs. Each piece donates 10% to building a home for street children in Kenya.

Vicky has something special to reveal. “This is gonna shock a lot of people but I would like to announce the birth of my baby girl. She is beautiful and has already proudly started her modelling career with maternity and baby work,” Vicky says.

Here’s an exclusive interview she granted The AfroNews.

Vicky, why did you choose to become a model?

I grew up in the super model era so from the age of six I mimicked my favour-ite stars. I was never shy in front of the lens so after nagging my mother to ‘look at me’ all the time, she finally decided to sign me up with an agent.

For how long have you been model-

ling?

I began at 16 years old with commer-cials and editorials then entered and won my first pageant at 22. From then I began doing fashion shows and a little acting.

How does it feel to be a model?

When you do something you love, it’s fulfilling. I get so excited not just about taking a good shot but also being a stylist- it’s about working as a team to get a strong theme and story behind the picture.

We hardly see black models in major fashion shows, magazine covers and in advertisements in the UK. Why do you think this happens?

Honestly - I think it reflects the demog-raphy of people who are running the show behind the scenes most of the time. Maybe designers and directors haven’t had the guts to break the mold yet. I am sure there are probably more reasons that make the whole thing a complex and controversial subject.

What’s your message to those who organise fashion events in the UK but deny models of colour a chance of taking part?

The world is a colourful place - there

are lots of pots in the paint pallet!

Is there any par-ticular thing you’d like to campaign for or against?

Hmm I would like to campaign for more petite models!

As a model, what

do you consider to be your role in the society?

To model grace inside and outside in your performance and involvement in projects. I think it’s important to lead, starting new ideas and projects from your platform.

What’s the part

of your body you like most?

At my fittest, I’m pretty proud of all of my body because I work hard at it and I am how I am sup-posed to be. If I had to choose - my abs and behind.

What’s your favourite Music/Book/Movie?

Being a writer I have many favourite books, I’m usually reading four or five at a time – “In my Mother’s Garden” by Alice Walker, “The power of now” by Eckhart Tolle, “48 laws of Power”, and “Woman thou art loosed” by TD Jakes.

Music depends on my mood. I love the power of music: old school RnB and Hip Hop revive my youth, Cold Play mellows my focus, Soul softens my spir-it, Rick Ross moti-vates me and Beyoncé awakens the diva!

Most recent favourite movies are

Create room for models of colour Exclusive interview with model Vicky Ngari-Wilson, a very proud mother


“Limitless”, “For Coloured girls” and “Book of Eli”.

What’s your most memorable day?

The day my daughter was born. I’m sure I had a conversation with God, for a moment I understood the meaning of life. I understood my power.

What do you like most about your-self?

I like the fact that I know what I want in this life.

What’s your favourite food?

Ha! I cannot answer that- I love food, as long as it’s healthy and tasty, it’s all love.

What’s your special talent?

Styling: be it a room, make up, hair or an outfit. When I have a vision I will improvise till it’s perfect from conception to completion.

What are your career and personal ambitions?

I want to run a lucrative business, have

a productive charity founda-tion and be a brand that stands for a strong fem-inine power. I also want to nur-ture four or five talented children and a strong marriage.

What’s your message to the black communi-ty members, especially to the young people who quite often don’t think they can make it in life?

The battle is in the mind, you gonna go where you are thinking so fight to change it.

What do you do to keep your figure in shape and your body well toned?

Running, spinning, kick boxing, pilates, hot bikram yoga. A combination gives a good balance of fitness, conditioning and suppleness. Exercise is a must, after hav-ing my baby I flung back to shape.

Do you have any fashion, beauty and style tips to share with our readers?

Style - find the best part of you and accentuate it with class. If you don’t have a clue about clothes - keep it simple.

For beauty I drink lots of water and exercise to keep skin glowing. Lip gloss and shaped eyebrows always give women a finished look.

What are the qualities of your ideal man?

I am very blessed to be able to say I have my ideal man. He is ambitious not only in his professional life but in con-stantly growing as a better person, he seeks

God. He can charm anyone. A family man and he looks good, he’s beautiful.

By Stephen Ogongo Ongong’a

COVER

“I want to run a lucra-tive business, have a productive charity

foundation and be a brand that stands for a strong feminine power. I also want to nurture four or five talented

children and a strong marriage”

Vicky Ngari-Wilson,Model

Full Name: Vicky Ngari- Wilson Date of birth: 30/09/1986Place of birth: Kenya Height: 5’5Bust: 32 C Waist: 24 Hips: 34Dress Size: 8 Shoe Size: 5 Eyes: BlackHair Colour: Brown Qualification: BA Creative Writing Country of parents’ origin: Kenya

Contacts Mahogany Models [email protected]: 07971 388687www.mahoganymodelmanagement.com

BASIC INFORMATION

13No. 24. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.euTHE GUIDE

This guide looks at one of the first and foremost concerns facing anyone wishing to initia-te legal action against another person or institution – how do they pay for it? We will explain the six main ways in which le-gal action can be funded.

The legal system of England and Wales has long allowed for the possibi-lity of commencing legal action witho-ut paying any costs, since the ‘Access to Justice Act 1999’ extended the re-ach of ‘conditional fee agre-ements’. These have beco-me known in popular lan-guage as ‘no win no fee’, as quite literally if you do not win, then you have nothing to pay (provided you have complied with the terms of the agreement).

Conditional Fee Agreements are probably the most complex of the six funding methods, yet unde-niably the most attractive to most people. We will the-refore cover the other five in passing before getting to grips with Conditional Fee Agreements (CFA’s). Please note, CFAs are only availa-ble in litigation – where you are suing people in the co-urts. For many areas, CFAs are not available.

Whichever funding method you cho-ose, the general principle in legal dispu-tes is that the loser pays the winner’s costs. Therefore if you win, then your opponent has a double bill – both your compensation and your legal expenses.

1) Fee paying (private)

This means you pay upfront for your solicitor’s costs. If you win, you can claim these back, but if you lose then you also have to pay your opponent’s costs. Not surprisingly this is the least popular method of funding legal action. However, it is often the only option where CFAs are not available.

Unfortunately it is also sometimes the only option. As we will see in a few paragraphs, the CFA route, whilst being the most attractive for consumers like you, carries the most risk for solici-tors as they will be out of pocket if they lose the case. Lawyers will therefore carry out a ‘risk analysis’ of your case before offering to take it on a CFA ba-sis. They’ll look at the circumstances of the claim, the likelihood of winning, an estimate of costs and also how like-ly it is they will be able to recover both their costs and a ‘success fee’ from the other side. If the resulting risk is too high, then unfortunately they will in-form you they can only take the case on fee-paying basis. This should not

be taken personally – it is no more than their professional assessment of these various factors.

2) Legal expenses (al-so known as ‘Before The Event’) insurance

Many insurance policies, including motor, home and credit cards provide legal expense cover. This is often limi-ted to specific types of claim, but if you are covered then you should use this as it is already paid for, but be aware – you

do not have to use the lawyers they ap-point. European law clearly states that you have the right to choose your own lawyer.

3) Union membership

If you are a fee-paying member of a union then it will often provide free legal advice, and may fund your claim. Trade unions usually have pre-selected legal partners and insist on using these to action the claim. Again you do not have to use the lawyers they appoint. European law clearly states that you ha-ve the right to choose your own lawyer.

4) Legal Aid

Legal Aid is where your costs are paid by the government through the Legal Services Commission. You have to meet certain income criteria and it is not available for personal injury claims (other than clinical negligence). Also, many solicitors do not accept legal aid work.

5) Contingency fee

This is where your solicitor agrees to not charge you an upfront fee, but inste-ad takes a share of your compensation award, if you win. The maximum they can charge you is 35% of your award.

Contingency fees are common in

employment disputes. They are curren-tly not possible in personal injury cla-ims although the government is pushing through changes to allow this – these are significant changes to the legal sys-tem and we will keep you informed of developments.

6) Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA)

A press release by the Lord Chancellor at the time of the ‘Access to Justice Act 1999’ said that conditional

fee arrangements would extend access to justice by ensuring that the costs of legal proceedings fall on those who cause the need for litigation and by ensuring that the value of any award by the court is preserved for the person it is awar-ded to (by preventing solicitors from taking a share).

In summary, a CFA usually goes like this:

• The solicitor does not charge you for their time. They pay for costs arising from running your case out of their own funds, lo-oking to claim these back from your opponent should they win.

• The solicitor takes out legal expenses insurance on your be-half, known as ‘After The Event’

or ATE insurance. This pays for your opponent’s legal costs and your own disbursements in the event that you lose your case.

• If you win, then your solicitor will recover from your opponent three diffe-rent charges:

- Your compensation – which you should keep 100% of

- The expenses they have incurred in running the case including the cost of the ATE insurance, and a fee for the-ir time

- A ‘success fee’, expressed as a per-centage of the time charge (‘normal co-sts’), and never more than 100%

The ‘success fee’ is a very intere-sting concept – not least because the government announced on 29th March that it would be seeking to abolish them (this is a massive topic of debate and one we will cover again). However it will remain in force for a while yet – probably at least a year – so it is still worth understanding what it means. Essentially success fees recognise that solicitors will win some cases and lo-se others. Success fees on the cases that they win allow them to cover the losses they make on the other cases. Technically, the person making the cla-im is responsible for paying the success fee, however it is usually recovered from the losing party.

Indeed, usually the other party will

make an offer to settle the case before it reaches court. The success fee will then be less than 100%. Most success fees are pre-set by the court rules depending on the type of claim being made.

With regards to the basic costs of running your case, if you win, they are usually paid by the other side, howe-ver, if the other side thinks they are too high, the court can decide that they do not have to pay the full amount. If this happens, you might have to pay the dif-ference out of your compensation.

Sometimes, a solicitor may agree only to charge you whatever you are able to get back from the other side. If this is the case, it must be written in the CFA.

Depending on the circumstances, and the agreement you have with your solicitor, you might also have costs to pay if:

• your solicitor advises you to drop your case and you choose not to

• you refuse to settle out of court when your solicitor advises you to

• you agree to settle out of court aga-inst the advice of your solicitor

• you refuse to co-operate with your solicitor in some other way

• the other side is ordered to pay co-sts but can’t afford to.

It can be very daunting to see in the CFA you are being asked to sign, nu-merous examples of situations such as the above where you may be liable for costs. However if you are engaging a solicitor on a CFA basis, you should be aware that until they receive the signed CFA document from you, they will not start any work on your behalf.

In reality as long as you always he-ed the advice of your solicitor, then it is highly unlikely you will have to pay any costs – it is technically possible but very few solicitors will want to earn a repu-tation for charging their clients unfairly under a CFA.

By HAMILTON BRADY LTD,www.hamiltonbrady.co.uk

Tel: 0844 873 6081E-mail: [email protected]

Address: Springfield HouseWater Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire,

SK9 5BG

Disclaimer: The above article is meant to be relied upon as an infor-

mative article and in no way constitu-tes legal advice. Information is offered for general information purposes only, based on the current law when the in-formation was published in this new-

spaper.

You should always seek advice from an appropriately qualified so-

licitor on any specific legal enquiry. For legal advice regarding your case,

please contact Hamilton Brady for a Consultation with a Solicitor on 0844

873 608.

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EI can’t afford a lawyer ... or can I?

Six main ways in which legal action can be funded

14 No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.euAFRICAN NEWS

AU condemns terrorist attacks in Damaturu, NigeriaThe African Union (AU) has

condemned the bomb and gun attacks carried out by terrorists in the north-eastern Nigerian town of Damaturu.

The attacked left over 100 people dead and dozens wounded, in one of the bloodi-

est terrorist acts witnessed in the country to date.

The Chairperson of the Commission of the AU, Dr. Jean Ping, said he was shocked and deeply disturbed to learn of the attack. He condemned in the strongest terms “these mindless criminal acts and sense-

less violence, which cannot be justified under any circumstances.”

Dr. Ping sent his most sincere condo-lences to the families of the victims and to the Government of Nigeria, and wished those wounded a speedy recovery.

He reaffirmed the AU’s total rejection

of terrorism, and its determination to com-bat its scourge in accordance with the rel-evant AU and international instruments.

Dr. Ping encouraged the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to spare no efforts in bringing those responsible for this horrific attack to justice.

Interview with Jacqueline Moudeina, winner of Right Livelihood Award

“I have a duty to contribute to a just life”

Leading Chadian human rights lawyer, Jacqueline Moudeina has won a Right Livelihood Award, widely known as the Alternative Nobel Prize. Jacqueline has been honoured for her fight to win jus-tice for the victims of the former Chadian dictator Hissène Habré. For her activism she has received numerous death threats and sur-vived an assassination attempt. The Afro News spoke to Jacqueline to learn more about her activ-ism.

Congratulations on winning a Right Livelihood Award. How do you feel about it?

I am overwhelmed by winning this award as it proves that the work which I have been doing for years has been fol-lowed outside the borders of my country, Chad. Although I have been neglected and despised by many of my fellow compatri-ots, this recognition shows that my fight is just and laudable.

You were one of the first women to practice law in Chad. Why did you decide to become a lawyer?

When the civil war broke out in Chad in 1979, I was forced to leave my home-land and move to Congo. It was during this time that I wanted to become a lawyer. I knew from an early age that I wanted to help people. I believe that the death of my father was a contributing factor; a man who had links to the government poisoned him. I was born three weeks after my father’s death and my mother died when I was 11. I always say that it was due to my status as an orphan that I am more attentive to those who suffer.

Can you briefly explain what life was like living under Hissène Habré’s rule?

Within a short space of time, every-thing came to a halt. Tensions were aroused between ethnic groups and things were made worse by heartless politicians forc-ing southern Chadians to return to the south.

My husband and I had no choice but to leave the country; my husband had openly criticised Hissène Habré, who was then

Prime Minister, so we were in danger. Life for the Chadian people was one that was lived in fear. Many people were tortured, imprisoned, forced into exile, raped and above all killed mercilessly under Habré’s regime. In short, life was a living hell.

In the face of death threats and an assassination attempt, what has kept you motivated to carry on with your work?

The fact that the perpetrators tried to kill me, and have still not been brought to justice makes me work harder. In Chad, there are violations against humanity every day. You can either stand by and be a vic-tim or decide to try and fight against them. I decided to fight back. I have tried to con-quer my fear; I no longer have the word fear in my vocabulary, but it is a real struggle on a daily basis.

I am working with women who can’t understand why the dreadful atrocities they experienced are not being recognised by the court. They have no patience with the system and I can understand this. The fight against impunity which I lead and which I will win by the Grace of God is what drives me on.

What would you like to achieve through extraditing Hissène Habré to Belgium?

I want justice for Chad. I want those who have suffered at the hands of Habré to have their day in the sun. I want justice making sure that those who committed crimes do not go unpunished. I think that if Habré is extradited to Belgium the case will be under an international spotlight. This will make it easier for the world to see and understand what the people of Chad went through.

How has working as a human rights lawyer changed your outlook on people and the world in general?

I only know that it is not easy to fight for human rights. It is often a thankless task although it is always a noble one. Those who one defends are not always grateful. I have problems with my family who yearn for a better life, one I could provide financially, and not one that makes them afraid that I may be killed, yet I firmly believe I have a duty to contribute to a just life and to help prevent violations

against humanity.

Finally, how will the Right Livelihood Award help you in your work?

The protection the award offers is very important to me. Receiving the Right

Livelihood Award will raise my profile internationally and make it difficult for people to attack me as they have done in the past.

By Chinwe Ojielo

“The fact that the perpetrators tried to kill me, and have still not been brought to justice makes me work

harder. In Chad, there are violations against humanity every day. You can either stand by and be a victim or decide to try and fight against them. I decided to fight

back. I have tried to conquer my fear; I no longer have the word fear in my vocabulary, but it is a real struggle

on a daily basis”

Ms. Jacqueline Moudeina,Winner of Right Livelihood Award

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16 No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.euCARIBBEAN NEWS

UK ‘climate loan’ to Jamaica will increase indebtedness - Campaigners

UK money will be used for a ‘climate loan’ to Jamaica, increas-ing its already heavy debt bur-den, following a decision by the World Bank last week.

Campaigners have condemned the loan, which will drive the Caribbean nation deeper into pover-ty. Jamaica’s foreign debt stands at $2,500 per person, and the country spends $1.2 billion a year on debt repayments. The government’s for-eign-owed debts are 55 per cent of national income, making its debt burden one of the heaviest in the world.

The $10 million loan agreed last week is intended to help Jamaica adapt to the effects of climate change. But campaigners say countries like the UK should give climate funds as grants rather than loans.

Jubilee Debt Campaign spokes-

person Tim Jones commented: “Debt has devastated lives across the world, bring-ing economic collapse and diverting money from essential public services. The

Jamaican government already spends $450 per person annually on debt repay-ments, more than on education and health-care combined. The World Bank and UK

government should be cancelling Jamaica’s debt, not adding to it

with new unjust climate loans.”

World Development Movement campaigner Murray Worthy added: “The UK and other rich industrialised countries bear the responsibility for causing climate change, both historical-ly and currently. We owe it to countries like Jamaica to help them adapt to the ravages of climate change – in fact we owe them money,

rather than the other way round. Climate loans do nothing to correct this injustice, and will only make life harder for Jamaicans as their government is forced to spend ever more on debt servicing.”

Climate loans using UK funds were also agreed for Bolivia and Yemen. The World Bank has so far lent $1.1 billion to developing countries in the name of cli-mate change.

Nearly 90 per cent of the UK’s fund-ing to help countries adapt to climate change is through loans, not grants.

The Jamaican government spends 28 per cent of the country’s revenues from exports on debt repayments, the highest amount of any developing country. This figure is a good measure of a country’s debt burden, because it is specifically export revenues which are needed to pay foreign debts.

By Ekklesia staff writers

Eliminate politically exclusive zones - Jamaica’s opposition leader

The People’s National Party of Jamaica is com-mitted to the elimination of zones of political exclu-sivity which are bolstered by political violence, Leader of the Opposition, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller has said.

The commitment was con-tained in a letter from the Opposition Leader to Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who had written to her in a letter dated 27th October, inviting her to walk in what he termed “garrison” communities.

In her response on 31st October, the Leader of the Opposition said while symbolic actions such as walks may play a role, addressing the substantive issue of politically exclusive zones would take much more than walking in them.

“Before we walk, I wish for us to sign-off on a programme of social transformation that serves to convert inner cities and depressed communities across Jamaica into ‘winner cities’, that will positively impact the lives of the persons who live within these

areas,” Mrs. Simpson Miller said.

The Leader of the Opposition added that she was v e h e m e n t l y opposed to the stigmatization of these communities by them being described as ‘gar-risons’.

“This not only negatively affects the psyche of the honest, decent res-idents of these communities, but also elevates and emboldens crimi-nal elements that live there,” Mrs. Simpson Miller pointed out.

She reminded the Prime Minister of the tremendous progress and polit-ical reform achieved in the last two decades as part of the process of addressing the phenomenon of zone of political exclusion. These reforms have included the intro-

duction of the Electronic Voter Identification and Ballots Issuing System (EVIBIS) and associated legal reforms, Mrs. Simpson Miller said. These gains, she added, now need to be consoli-

dated and advanced.“We need to be

assured for the upcoming election, that the electoral process will at least be conducted at the level it was in 2007, and preferably

extend those gains to other poten-tially volatile areas,” the Leader of the Opposition said.

She added that before embark-ing on the symbolic activity of walking, she was therefore, seek-

ing a tangible indication of the Prime Minister’s commitment to these processes and principles.

“We expect that the legal reforms recommended by the Electoral Commission of Jamaica, and agreed to by the Parliament, will be passed into law speedily, before elections are held. We are also of the view that steps should be taken to review the Political Code of Conduct, with a view to its strengthening,” Mrs. Simpson Miller said.

©JI

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“We expect that the legal reforms rec-ommended by the Electoral

Commission of Jamaica, and agreed to by the Parliament, will be passed

into law speedily, before elections are held. We are also of the view that

steps should be taken to review the Political Code of Conduct, with a view

to its strengthening”

Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller,Leader of the Opposition

“Debt has devastated lives across the world, bringing economic collapse and diverting money from essential public services. The

Jamaican government already spends $450 per person annually on debt repayments, more

than on education and healthcare combined. The World Bank and UK government should be cancelling Jamaica’s debt, not adding to it

with new unjust climate loans”

Mr. Tim Jones,Jubilee Debt Campaign spokesperson

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Meshell Ndegeocello shares intimate thoughts in “Weather”The eclectic songwriter plays two nights at London’s Jazz Cafe

Meshell Ndegeocello has released her latest record “Weather” on Naïve. In this release Meshell, who is an eclectic songwriter, expands on her iconic style, writing a lush album of inti-mate song writing.

“Weather” is produced by Grammy-winner Joe Henry (Ani DiFranco, Solomon Burke).

A strikingly organic record, the album finds Meshell experimenting with the sparse, orchestral melodies paired thought-ful lyrics, all performed by a band of fear-some musicians.

On “Weather” Meshell’s usually deep vocals slip into a register more like a whis-per, sharing secrets about subjects that are straightforward, almost light-hearted. She has pared down her style to something like pop. “I started to write this album on the guitar and you can hear it. The final atmo-sphere’s gentler.”

Despite the pop-folk sound of “Weather”, jazz remains a major source of inspiration. “I love jazz musicians. They’re free; they have no fear. I’ve done pop and there are lots of barriers, lots of holding back. You have to stick to the conventions. Jazz musicians embrace uncertainty and adventure, even in their private lives. They’re more open and often more skilled, both in the studio and on stage.”

On “Weather”, Meshell sings of the ups and downs of love, one of her favourite subjects. Her heroines are marked by the

void left by the loved one (“Object”) or else, like a game of mirrors, pour out their heart about the hurt they have caused oth-ers.

She does a cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Chelsea Hotel”, dedicated to Janis Joplin, an extremely sad and somewhat sexist song, as well as “Don’t Take My Kindness for Weakness” by Soul Children, a sixties soul band, whose message she has made

her own. Her own lyrics are always con-cise, precise or allusive, full of images and poetry (“I want to be your answer”). “They’re like mantras, some phrases cast to the wind, images that pop into my mind. Then I add the music.”

She also talks about the wider world on a few tracks. “Oysters” is about “the change that everyone talks about but never comes”. Meshell explains that

“Consumerism is gaining ground all the time. We all live to get a new car or a new computer, but what’s the point?”

So, join the great world party? “Not for me,” she replies in “Dirty World”. “I live two hours from New York. I ran away from all the dirt. There’s a farm where I live, and healthy food. I love cooking – it’s not all that different from making music. You need ingredients, and the greatest pleasure is when you share it with others.”

The album features all-star collabora-tions with the likes of Chris Connelly (ex-Revolting Cocks, Ministry), Benji Hughes, and Joe Henry.

Meshell is wary of politics. She believed in Barack Obama. She now rea-lises that “he’s not as progressive as I hoped and he hasn’t got as much power as I imagined”. She’s not disillusioned, though; her children are a great source of joy to her. She speaks very tenderly of them, as she does of her partner, who “helps me keep things in balance”.

Meshell will stage two concerts on 18th and 19th November 2011 at Jazz Café in London. The concerts will begin at 7pm. Tickets: £22.50. To book, please dial 0843 221 0100.

ENTERTAINMENT

Meshell Ndegeocello releases her new LP “Weather” this month

UnconditionalLyrical Soldier releases debut music video

UK Gospel Rapper Lyrical Soldier has just released a debut music video for his latest single, “Unconditional”.

The Trailer of the video, released on 18th October, is already causing great excitement and anticipation within the music industry both in the UK and Internationally.

The video features appearances from Simply Andy, and the 2011 BEFFTA winner and 2010 MOBO Nominee Faith Child.

This ground breaking video was produced and directed by the talented Patrick Odur (Trail Pictures). Patrick also directed the video for the UK Gospel conglomerate Writeway Music for their hit song “Alienated”.

Lyrical Soldier has also currently been nominated for three prestigious awards: GMA Ireland Awards; Best Rap Artist and Best International Song of the Year; and GUBA Award: ‘Best New Music Act’.

For further information about Lyrical Soldier, please visit http://www.lyricalsoldier.com/

www.meshell.comwww.naive.fr

MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO’S LINKS

Gospel Rapper Lyrical Soldier

Italy based Ghanaian musician Matt Quaicoe has released a new Gospel LP titled “24th Hour”.

Matt, who has previously released three successful LPs,

mixes different genres of music in this new release.

The new LP is already doing well in Ghana and some European countries. His key message in this LP to the believ-ers is that they should never give up in life, even when things really go wrong. God will

always intervene at the 24th hour, at the very last minute, he says.

Matt emphasises this mes-sage in the first track “24th Hour” which is the title track.

Matt became famous in Ghana in the mid 90’s with his highlife album “Wo Beyin Abeto” meaning the young shall grow.

He has composed Gospel songs for Ghanaian stars like Stella Dughan and the late bish-op Michael Osei Bonsu, just to mention a few.

The “24th Hour” LP con-tains ten songs, five in English and five in Twi, (a Ghanaian language).

You can watch the songs in the “24th Hour” LP on YouTube.

To contact Matt Quaicoe, please dial any of these num-bers: +39 3270571946; +39 3463517627; +233 244418517.

Matt Quaicoe releases Gospel-Reggae LP

18 No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.euCOMMENTARY-OP-ED

Krumpli with paprikaA savoury dish to warm

you up in cold autumn eve-nings. A spicy Hungarian potato goulash, served with smoked sausage and crusty bread and a dollop of soured cream.

Serves 4Preparation time: 15 min-utesCooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, sliced• 90g (3 oz.) bacon fat• 1-2 tablespoons paprika• ½ teaspoon chilli powder• 750g (1½ lb) potatoes, quar-

tered• ½ teaspoon caraway seeds• 1 teaspoon salt• 200g (7oz) smoked sausage,

sliced• sour cream

Preparation

Slice the onion and fry it in

the bacon fat until golden; mix in the paprika and the chilli, stir well.

Add the quartered potatoes and coat well with the fat and spice mixture. Add caraway seeds and salt and add enough water to cover. Simmer covered for 15 minutes or until tender. Add the sliced sausage, heat through and serve with chunks of crusty bread and a dollop of sour cream.

Get ready for a wave of warmth to stir your spirits!

RECIPE

Questioning Mayor’s Black mentoring scheme

Last year in summer I reluc-tantly attended a public meeting held in City Hall by Boris Johnson and his team. The meeting was meant (or so I was told) as an information/consultation to gauge the black community’s feelings towards the Mayor’s proposed mentoring program.

The program’s remit was clear: 1,000 Black men to mentor 1,000 black boys. Seven London Boroughs were chosen by virtue of their black crime statistics. Funding of £1.4m was secured and the Mayor claimed he wanted this to be a com-munity led program. He claimed he and his team understood the need for experienced trusted organisations to lead and deliver the program. I know this because I, among others asked the question repeatedly and that was the answer given.

I remember clearly during one such City Hall meeting, several brothers expressed deep concerns about working

with City Hall and sadly I defended the City Hall, by saying that irrespective of their past behaviour toward Blacks in London and irrespective of whether this was purely a political move by Boris to curry favour with the black community (after all he has done nothing else for us), we as black men should seize the opportu-nity, take their money and make a change in our community. For ALL our communi-ties.

So, can anyone explain to me how The University of East London (UEL), London Action Trust (LAT) and some unknown group called Ethos ended up being award-ed the program? It is reported that the actual winners of the Mayor’s selection process, a black consortium of London’s finest black mentoring and training organi-sations, were not awarded the contract because they ‘failed on the financial due diligence’ ………..

Well, all the companies in the black consortium continue to trade, but LAT, I understand has gone bust and Ethos has disappeared back to the land of nod, leav-ing UEL to scrounge around for commu-nity partners.

City Hall claim 2,100 mentors (note the words black and men have disappeared) have signed up for the program. A program which they would have us believe is on schedule to deliver 1,000 relationships.

They began in July, that’s four months ago and yet only 21 relationships have started. I am pretty good at maths so you can trust the following figures. If for every four-month period they double the amount of mentors working it will take them almost two years to get to their 1,000 target and at least a year more for the last relationship to end.

And this figure does not take into account the dropouts. Do you think UEL knows this? Speed of take up of such a program requires what the UEL just does not have - community credibility and com-munity access. Not their fault, just the facts.

Now since the Mayor and his team were warned, could we say this was purely an incompetent selection process, that they had no one better to choose from or is there something else going on?

An emerging viewpoint among the bet-ter informed than I, is that this program was never meant to work. Yep you read right. The collapse of LAT was the first sign. City Hall employers are said to have close links to LAT so surely they knew of the state of the organisation.

Next, the fact that UEL came third…..not second, third, after the interviews, so why choose them, if as you say you want the program to work?

If I didn’t know better I would say UEL were handed a poison chalice. If they fail it is their failure, if they suc-ceed then our Boy Boris has a huge public success on his record.

But let’s drill a little further on this “they never wanted it to work” theory. The white middle classes have been fed a constant

diet of tripe pointing all social ills to black kids, our boys in particular. An effective mentoring program targeting 1,000 boys would make a huge difference. I suspect Boris and crew don’t want that difference to happen. Why?

Let me tell you why and even I can’t believe I am typing this.

a) If black boys clean up their act, City Hall and UK politicians will have to face the truth, which is that the UK underclass are the true source of the UK’s issue and they my friends are from all races, poor uneducated and living without hope or opportunity.

b) The huge industry which feeds off our boys would collapse. The prison ser-vice, security firms, probation officers, CCTV, etc. All scaled back or now focused on white kids.

c) The Daily Mail would have to find someone else to blame for every ill in the UK.

Guys I hope I am wrong, but under-stand that if I am, then it means that the City Hall selection team are grossly incom-petent and merely chose the wrong team and then I must ask, could anyone be that dumb?

Watch this space. This does not end here. Next year is an election year and already Boris is listing this program as one of his successes (yes, I did visit his re-election page).

If you are white, reading this and won-dering what this has to do with you, then perhaps you too should be concerned, as YOUR money has just been wasted too. This is not a black issue. Remember what David Starky said, your innocent white kids are corrupted by these black kids, so fixing them is in your interest too.

By Paul Lawrence

19No. 24. 8th - 14th November 2011 www.theafronews.euLIFESTYLE & RELIGION

Catholics now allowed to marry future sovereignsSons and daughters of future UK monarchs will have equal right to the throne

The Catholic Church has wel-comed Prime Minister David Cameron’s announcement on the Royal Succession allowing heirs to the throne freedom to marry a Catholic without being removed from the line of succession.

“This will eliminate a point of unjust discrimination against Catholics and will be welcomed not only by Catholics but far more widely,” said the Most Reverend

Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales. “At the same time I fully recognise the importance of the position of the Established Church in protecting and fos-tering the role of faith in our society today.”

Mr. Cameron made the announcement at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit in Perth, Australia. The changes to the succession laws were unanimously

approved by the leaders of the 16 Commonwealth countries where the Queen is head of state.

Mr. Cameron announced that sons and daughters of any future UK monarch will have equal right to the throne.

The change will mean that a younger son will no longer become a monarch instead of an elder sister simply because he is a man. For instance, a first-born daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge would take precedence over younger brothers.

“The idea that a younger son should become monarch instead

of an elder daughter simply because he is

a man just isn’t accept-able any more. Nor does it make any sense that a potential mon-arch can marry some-one of any faith other than Catholic. The thinking behind these rules is wrong. That’s why people have been talking about changing them for some time,” Mr. Cameron said.

Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone said: “The time for change has arrived. Women should have equal rights to men in every aspect of life, including our Monarchy. I welcome this change and I am proud that this govern-ment is unafraid to tackle this issue.”

“The idea that a younger son should become mon-arch instead of an elder daughter simply because

he is a man just isn’t acceptable any more. Nor

does it make any sense that a potential monarch

can marry someone of any faith other than

Catholic. The thinking behind these rules is

wrong. That’s why people have been talking about changing them for some

time”

Prime Minister David Cameron

“I welcome the decision of Her Majesty’s Government to give

heirs to the throne the freedom to marry a Catholic without

being removed from the line of succession. This will eliminate a

point of unjust discrimination against Catholics and will be

welcomed not only by Catholics but far more widely”

Most Reverend Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster

Quit smoking, children ask parentsThe best present smok-

ing parents can offer their children for Christmas is to quit smoking. Children are so concerned about the impact of smoking on their parent’s health that they’d go to considerable lengths to get them to give up, a new research pub-lished by the Department of Health shows.

The research revealed that over half (54%) of children with a parent who smokes say that their one wish for Christmas is that their Mum or Dad give up smoking.

Almost all (98%) children with a smoking parent wish that they would quit. Almost three quarters (73%) of children with a

smoking parent worry about the risk of their parent dying. A fur-ther 58% worry about the risk of heart disease.

The research also revealed that 94% of children thought smoking was either stupid (52%) or dangerous (42%) while 88% wished nobody in the world smoked. Ninety percent say they have never tried a cigarette, and 91% say they never will. The children are strongly against smoking that 93% of them wouldn’t want their own children smoking, when they grow up.

When it comes to what chil-dren would do to get their parents to quit, over a third (37%) would go without any Christmas pres-ents; over half (59%) would give up pocket money; and seven out

of ten would commit to doing their homework every night (78%) and going to bed when told (76%).

Almost a third of children surveyed (29%) admitted to hid-ing their parents’ cigarettes in a desperate attempt to help them quit.

The research, which polled 1,000 children in England aged 7-13, coincided with the launch of a second wave of a Department of Health advertising campaign aimed at getting loved ones to quit smoking.

NHS smokefree ambassador and TV star Linda Robson, said: “Having seen my own Dad die from lung cancer aged 57, there’s no way I wanted to put my own children through that experience.

The thought of my kids visiting me in hospital was a strong moti-vation for me and since I decided to quit, my three kids have been a huge support.

“There are times now when I still want to reach for a cigarette, but for my own health and for the benefit of my family I’m commit-ted to staying smokefree. Since quitting I feel much better about myself. I’m feeling healthier, I have more energy and everyone is commenting on how good my skin looks. Knowing that my children are much happier since I stopped is also really important.”

Anne Milton, Public Health Minister said: “What’s clear from the research is that children really want their parents to give up smoking. It’s not easy to give up,

but we hope the campaign will give people that extra bit of encouragement they need to quit. Around half of all regular smok-ers are eventually killed by a smoking related illness.”

Deborah Arnott, Chief Executive, Action on Smoking & Health (ASH) said: “Evidence shows that smokers need to be motivated to quit and need advice on how to quit. This campaign does both. Smokers may also find it easier to stop smoking not for their own sake but for the sake of their children or other members of their family.”

To order your Quit Kit visit nhs.uk/smokefree or text KIT to 63818, for help and advice about quitting call the NHS helpline on 0800 085 5052.

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The AfroNews No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011

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Transcript of The AfroNews No. 25. 8th - 14th November 2011