I hope you understand sometimes I get angry. This does not mean that you control me. Never! It is a natural instinct to get angry. Now let me tell you one thing. Close monitoring and spying as I have said will not help our relationships. It makes it worse when you tend to be confrontational. I know you have the power but not the determination to destroy me.
Have you taken sometime off to think about what your behavior means? There is one thing that you do not understand that you need to understand. Your neatness, the so called excellence is complete rubbish. It is a cover up, you moron. I know you have gotten scared of the high handed language I use these days. The reason is simple. You understand best the same principles that you employ on others.
You fear, fear. You are too scared of what you do to others. You fear challenge. You are a great pretender. You think everybody is a lair, a cheat, savage just like you. No! You repay good with evil. You never honor agreements if your interests are not catered. You pursue your enemies to that last point. Fine. But let me tell you one thing, anarchy does not mean chaos. You need to change, my brother.
Now you will call this utter rubbish. I don’t care. Call it what ever you want. Let me tell you, it is you who needs me not me who needs you. I hope you understand this simple logic. The problem is you never understand simple things because your mind is full of gossip. The last time you called me trying to cross check what your snoops say about me, how wrong that approach was.
I am aware you send your so called snoops to gather information on me but you will fail. You monitor my communications. You follow me everywhere I go. What are you scared? Are you trying to protect your wealth that you accumulated?
Friday, March 6, 2009
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
YOU WILL LOOSE
I have said it several times. I will continue saying it. I know you determine whether I will have a job tomorrow or never. I know you want to spread fear and terror. I know you are a new breed of colonialists. I know you have been indoctrinated with capitalistic ideology. I also know you have bigger connections and you can make or undo something.
When I keep silent do not think I am a fool. Do not think I consented what you have said. No. You are just a fool who does not want to hear the other side of the story. Your favorite topic is gossip. Fools give you what you want. If you could admit that you are stupid you would learn something. Unfortunately you do not.
I know you want to reap more from me then dump me like a used condom. I know you smile but with a dagger on the back. I know you want to constantly keep others from ever raising their voices. I know that you select a few of your henchmen to use to deny this fact.
Let me make you know one thing, I am not an ox. I have blood flowing through my veins. I have brains to think carefully over issues. Do not push me over the board because that will be very very bad. Let me not be provoked. Learn to appreciate the little that I do for you. Let us live like human beings with equal dignity and destiny. Let you not think I exist because of you. Please give me time to reflect and be with those that love me.
When you use intimidation, harassment, blackmail, exploitation of any nature I will not be moved because I know what lies in the crocked mind of a capitalist like you. Threatens have never pulled me down. Fear and terror will never ever pull me down. If many have been swallowed in your bait, sorry I will not be the next victim. I WILL DEFEAT YOU IN YOUR OWN GAME.
Please never attempt to spy on me and pretend to be a friend. It will not work well with you. Please do not push me so far to do things I think I will not be able to do. I will appreciate if you came and we discuss over it on table. Let the discussion be open. I know you fear to lose. You fear the same things that you are subjecting others to do. If you knew that your wickedness is a gamble, you would repent. Unfortunately, you are drunk with self gratification.
It is hard to convince you that being powerful does not mean that you can do everything you want on me. No brother. I respect you, please do the same? Do not let me begin to doubt your intentions as I have already done. I need your guidance. I need your cooperation not to further my interests or your interests but to make this world a perfect place to be.
I do not expect you to gang up with the heathens. I will be puzzled if you did that. You would have betrayed me. I know you do not care to listen to what others say. Fine. You are entitled to yourself. Value me like the way you value yourself. Double standards and not respecting your word is betrayal. When I read that mail you wrote accusing me of all things, I thought less about you. It is not always proper to do that to a friend whom you like. Real fighters meet their opponents ready in the battlefield.
Yes, I know your approach but you may never know mine. You pretend to be honest when actually you are being silly. You mix toughness with rudeness. You call hypocrisy tact. You believe that, you never mind what people say about you? How wrong you are my brother. You never want to loose an argument. You are a double talker. You say one thing and never live up to it. You pirate other peoples ideas and think you are clever than them. How wrong you are my brother. You fear to engage in intellectual debate but do underground work to back stab friends. How terrible that could be for you, my brother.
Your time is up. Nobody will listen to you. Your future is as empty as your past. Keep going maybe one lunatic will cross your way for you to bite, chew and swallow. You surround yourself with morons and think they are intellectuals to engage in any argument. Let me tell you one thing, you will lose because you think what I say is rubbish.
When I keep silent do not think I am a fool. Do not think I consented what you have said. No. You are just a fool who does not want to hear the other side of the story. Your favorite topic is gossip. Fools give you what you want. If you could admit that you are stupid you would learn something. Unfortunately you do not.
I know you want to reap more from me then dump me like a used condom. I know you smile but with a dagger on the back. I know you want to constantly keep others from ever raising their voices. I know that you select a few of your henchmen to use to deny this fact.
Let me make you know one thing, I am not an ox. I have blood flowing through my veins. I have brains to think carefully over issues. Do not push me over the board because that will be very very bad. Let me not be provoked. Learn to appreciate the little that I do for you. Let us live like human beings with equal dignity and destiny. Let you not think I exist because of you. Please give me time to reflect and be with those that love me.
When you use intimidation, harassment, blackmail, exploitation of any nature I will not be moved because I know what lies in the crocked mind of a capitalist like you. Threatens have never pulled me down. Fear and terror will never ever pull me down. If many have been swallowed in your bait, sorry I will not be the next victim. I WILL DEFEAT YOU IN YOUR OWN GAME.
Please never attempt to spy on me and pretend to be a friend. It will not work well with you. Please do not push me so far to do things I think I will not be able to do. I will appreciate if you came and we discuss over it on table. Let the discussion be open. I know you fear to lose. You fear the same things that you are subjecting others to do. If you knew that your wickedness is a gamble, you would repent. Unfortunately, you are drunk with self gratification.
It is hard to convince you that being powerful does not mean that you can do everything you want on me. No brother. I respect you, please do the same? Do not let me begin to doubt your intentions as I have already done. I need your guidance. I need your cooperation not to further my interests or your interests but to make this world a perfect place to be.
I do not expect you to gang up with the heathens. I will be puzzled if you did that. You would have betrayed me. I know you do not care to listen to what others say. Fine. You are entitled to yourself. Value me like the way you value yourself. Double standards and not respecting your word is betrayal. When I read that mail you wrote accusing me of all things, I thought less about you. It is not always proper to do that to a friend whom you like. Real fighters meet their opponents ready in the battlefield.
Yes, I know your approach but you may never know mine. You pretend to be honest when actually you are being silly. You mix toughness with rudeness. You call hypocrisy tact. You believe that, you never mind what people say about you? How wrong you are my brother. You never want to loose an argument. You are a double talker. You say one thing and never live up to it. You pirate other peoples ideas and think you are clever than them. How wrong you are my brother. You fear to engage in intellectual debate but do underground work to back stab friends. How terrible that could be for you, my brother.
Your time is up. Nobody will listen to you. Your future is as empty as your past. Keep going maybe one lunatic will cross your way for you to bite, chew and swallow. You surround yourself with morons and think they are intellectuals to engage in any argument. Let me tell you one thing, you will lose because you think what I say is rubbish.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
GIRL BEHEADED
This week in our small town the news has been the shocking murders. The shocking one was the murder of Esther a school girl in Soroti. The other has been killing of two people in Katakwi and the massive accident that claimed five lives along Soroti Mbale Road.
Esther, a beautiful girl was found brutally murdered with her head chopped off near a church founded school on 19.02.09. In the recent weeks, there have been stories of ritual murders generally in the country. A boy kidnapped here, another baby chopped off to death that way and a witchdoctor there arrested.
A lot of these stories have appeared in the local press and FM stations that have tended to ignore or down played the political stories in country.
The circumstance under which Esther was murdered is not clear. Police has launched it is investigations to pursue Esther’s killers. After two days, the head of Esther was found thrown in a suburb in Town. The police is tight leaped about the story and reluctant for the media to take photographs of suspects.
Although, the alleged killers of Esther were apprehended, they will not be the first type of culprits to be held of brutal murders in Uganda.
In 2005, a Ugandan prominent female Lawyer was brutally murdered in front of her house. After investigations the suspects and key - among them was a prominent Ugandan doctor who was the husband to deceased were arrested and charged with murder.
The whole case ended in favor of the accused. The doctor maintained his innocence despite the fact his children testified against him. The judge said the doctor only remained a high suspect and there was no substantive evidence to convict him for murder.
Now this case of Esther with the shocking manner in which she was murdered and police reluctant to reveal the details of the suspects, it will be an interesting case in court once more. It will be more painful especially if police gathers the necessary evidence and the accused are left to go scort free.
The suspects were produced before court on 24.02.2009. The trial magistrate did not allow them to enter plea sighting the fact that his court does not have powers to hear capital cases of that nature.
Most people here are observing how the legal drama of this case kicks off. Others are wondering, what could however influence one to murder a simple girl in her tender age? According to Esther’s mother who police detained briefly, her daughter was a very humble and lively girl.
What remains unaswered is what could be the motives of the killers? This is a mystery.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
NOT FEELING WELL
I have not been feeling well lately. It is so hot here. you could imagine, we are in hell for sure. I also think to much work is pushing me on the edge so fast. I hope to feel better by monday, God willing.
I have not met friends for a long time. I think, i have not been writing and talking to them for some time. I hope come new year, i should be able to talk to them much so often.
Today not much to write hope about. Just reviewing international politics and looking forward to see how Obama will save the world from economic collapse. Obama OYEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have not met friends for a long time. I think, i have not been writing and talking to them for some time. I hope come new year, i should be able to talk to them much so often.
Today not much to write hope about. Just reviewing international politics and looking forward to see how Obama will save the world from economic collapse. Obama OYEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Do not shout at me
I do not want to be shouted at. I want to be respected so that I respect you. I do not want any suspicions. I don’t want to be suspicious of you. My teacher ten years ago said that I was quite being sensitive. I agree with that statement. I don’t want to be taken for granted especially when I am giving my all in a faithful and correct manner. That is me.
I hate being closely monitored. I hate to be doubted especially when I am speaking the truth from the bottom of my heart. Do not lay traps on me. It takes me time before saying out anything. I go through a process of thinking, listening and then talking. I consider speech is the highest level of thought. So, I speak after carefully considering the actions of my speech. I really hate to be accused falsely. It drives me nuts. Please, if you have any grudges with me let us discuss. Please do not go behind my back. I hate cowards who can not confront issues and use others to attack my integrity. I work not for money, I work for a cause. I want to make a change in this world.
You do not have to love, hate or like me in order to agree or disagree with my views. If you can not stand me leave me alone. You are different from me although we are the same. Do not make my life difficult because you want to make yours enjoyable. Do not muzzle me. I am not an ox. I know in one way or another you contribute for my well being but it does not mean I am your property.
Learn to talk to me well. If you are open and sincere let us talk. Keep you constructive criticism to yourself. Criticism has never been positive. If I criticized you, you would develop goose pimples. So delete that criticism. If you do not like my style then follow your style. I can not force you to follow mine. Why are you forcing me to follow yours, my friend?
If we agreed on something let us not create more excuses of dodging. I hate it when you are pretending to be smart and knowing everything. I can easily detect it and that can be very, very dangerous. I value professionalism, integrity, honesty, fairness and truth in the true meaning of those words. Please do not take me for granted because I don’t treat you so. Why then do you want to control myself?
I hate blackmail, betrayal, exploitation, lies and looking down on others. Each one of us has his own strong and weak points. Please, keep your views to where is appropriate. Do not try anything funny that will strain our relations. I hold you in high regard as a human being in the first place. Why don’t you hold me at the same level? I did not choose to be dull, stupid, poor, and incompetent or whatever negativity you hold in your perverted mind.
I say again do not lay traps on me. Do not go behind my back. Do not laugh with me and hold a dagger behind your back. I hate that. Do not shout at me, my friend. Iam not bothered with what you think Iam.
I hate being closely monitored. I hate to be doubted especially when I am speaking the truth from the bottom of my heart. Do not lay traps on me. It takes me time before saying out anything. I go through a process of thinking, listening and then talking. I consider speech is the highest level of thought. So, I speak after carefully considering the actions of my speech. I really hate to be accused falsely. It drives me nuts. Please, if you have any grudges with me let us discuss. Please do not go behind my back. I hate cowards who can not confront issues and use others to attack my integrity. I work not for money, I work for a cause. I want to make a change in this world.
You do not have to love, hate or like me in order to agree or disagree with my views. If you can not stand me leave me alone. You are different from me although we are the same. Do not make my life difficult because you want to make yours enjoyable. Do not muzzle me. I am not an ox. I know in one way or another you contribute for my well being but it does not mean I am your property.
Learn to talk to me well. If you are open and sincere let us talk. Keep you constructive criticism to yourself. Criticism has never been positive. If I criticized you, you would develop goose pimples. So delete that criticism. If you do not like my style then follow your style. I can not force you to follow mine. Why are you forcing me to follow yours, my friend?
If we agreed on something let us not create more excuses of dodging. I hate it when you are pretending to be smart and knowing everything. I can easily detect it and that can be very, very dangerous. I value professionalism, integrity, honesty, fairness and truth in the true meaning of those words. Please do not take me for granted because I don’t treat you so. Why then do you want to control myself?
I hate blackmail, betrayal, exploitation, lies and looking down on others. Each one of us has his own strong and weak points. Please, keep your views to where is appropriate. Do not try anything funny that will strain our relations. I hold you in high regard as a human being in the first place. Why don’t you hold me at the same level? I did not choose to be dull, stupid, poor, and incompetent or whatever negativity you hold in your perverted mind.
I say again do not lay traps on me. Do not go behind my back. Do not laugh with me and hold a dagger behind your back. I hate that. Do not shout at me, my friend. Iam not bothered with what you think Iam.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
WHO
Then the pregnant rains delivered
The earth knelt and wept
Amidst the most roaming and roaring clouds
Like a wounded lion in the jungle
And thunder went boom
We the remains of hope
Collapsed in one heap like mud
In that turbulent
Everybody moved
And moved closely to fake safety
To see and dance life afresh
Eyes darting in desperation
Here and there
The last hope
We the remains of hope
So we danced in that wilderness
Bended knees
But not hearts
We pleaded not
For our freedom
But for the future of our brothers
So we chose to fight
The fight of our hope
In the rugged and tugged world
Where everybody fights children no more
In that fight we fight not anyhow
We fight and fight the good fight of flight
So we set to restore hope to many lost hopes
We did not want to be shot
No, we did not want to fight
We did not want to escape death
We knew the challenge
We knew the repercussions
We moved on to fight the fight
We moved and moved
In the hope
One day, we shall be there
So we moved on bleeding
In the life of no hope
So we moved on
In the rough life of our people
That one day our lives will be good
How wrong we were
In the last of the hopes
We mistook every inch
Then, we heard
The big men from Europe would come
We heard them come
In the hope of rescuing us
How wrong? Alas!
Then, the clouds again vomited
Life since then has been a misery
Terrible
Hard and difficult
And barren like the rocks of Sahara
Romancing cold desert winds
Moving no where
Yes once tender eyes
No more tender care
Yes eyes red like the rats
Caught by the tail
And dashed against the wall
Paying the price of innocence
Our only hope no more hope
We struggled to keep hope
Our selves safe
Safe from memories of murder
Guilty of innocence
I say no more hope in that level
Who knows?
One day we could be that better
One day we shall be one good help to any body
Who knows that one day?
We shall know the comfort of a mother
We shall know the advice of a father
We shall know the company of a brother
Who knows one day we shall be human once more
Who knows one day our voice will be heard across the oceans
But now we lean against the palm tree
And watch the world sway astray.
The earth knelt and wept
Amidst the most roaming and roaring clouds
Like a wounded lion in the jungle
And thunder went boom
We the remains of hope
Collapsed in one heap like mud
In that turbulent
Everybody moved
And moved closely to fake safety
To see and dance life afresh
Eyes darting in desperation
Here and there
The last hope
We the remains of hope
So we danced in that wilderness
Bended knees
But not hearts
We pleaded not
For our freedom
But for the future of our brothers
So we chose to fight
The fight of our hope
In the rugged and tugged world
Where everybody fights children no more
In that fight we fight not anyhow
We fight and fight the good fight of flight
So we set to restore hope to many lost hopes
We did not want to be shot
No, we did not want to fight
We did not want to escape death
We knew the challenge
We knew the repercussions
We moved on to fight the fight
We moved and moved
In the hope
One day, we shall be there
So we moved on bleeding
In the life of no hope
So we moved on
In the rough life of our people
That one day our lives will be good
How wrong we were
In the last of the hopes
We mistook every inch
Then, we heard
The big men from Europe would come
We heard them come
In the hope of rescuing us
How wrong? Alas!
Then, the clouds again vomited
Life since then has been a misery
Terrible
Hard and difficult
And barren like the rocks of Sahara
Romancing cold desert winds
Moving no where
Yes once tender eyes
No more tender care
Yes eyes red like the rats
Caught by the tail
And dashed against the wall
Paying the price of innocence
Our only hope no more hope
We struggled to keep hope
Our selves safe
Safe from memories of murder
Guilty of innocence
I say no more hope in that level
Who knows?
One day we could be that better
One day we shall be one good help to any body
Who knows that one day?
We shall know the comfort of a mother
We shall know the advice of a father
We shall know the company of a brother
Who knows one day we shall be human once more
Who knows one day our voice will be heard across the oceans
But now we lean against the palm tree
And watch the world sway astray.
surviving economic slow down
The world is experiencing economic slow down. As usual it is biting us badly. Our shilling as kept on depreciating. The dollar is gaining strength every now and then. The rich are becoming rich and living comfortable lives, as we continue to hallow in misery and discomfort.
Now, we have resolved to find ways of surviving this economic slow down. Firstly, as a family, we have put some measures with immediate effect that might not be pleasant to family members. We have arrived at these decisions after heavy and difficult deliberations.
You might be wondering why we are taking radical measures to cut down the family budget. The reasons are various. Number one, the cost of doing business across the world, so we are told has become extremely expensive so our regular shop keeper has hiked all prices of all the commodities that we used to buy from him. Secondly, our people have not been able to produce enough food in the recent times as a consequence increasing conflicts and bad weather. Thirdly, the level of inflation is increasing every day across our country-our money is losing value.
Now, these measures here below are meant to have the family afloat until September, 2009 when the situation is expected to normalize.
Meals. With immediate effect, we shall only have one meal a day instead of the usual three. This meal will comprise of sweet potatoes mixed with beans. The kids have been so keen in asking about jam and bread every morning. This has been scrapped. Break fast will be replaced with roasted maize and water served to children only. This will also be scrapped in the next three month.
Lunch will be a preserve for the children and will be served on merit. Any child above the age of five will not be entitled to lunch. The lunch will be strictly composed of porridge without sugar. This is also subject to change as the conditions become tough. With these friendly measures, we shall be able to save something for the next meal.
Even our one day meal will be strictly rationed. The children will take priority number one followed by the women and elders respectively. We shall reduce the number of potatoes every day until the economic situations stabilizes. In the subsequent weeks, the elders will select to eat these prestigious meals in turns. These again will enable us save for the next year.
Health. We have also resolved as a family not to fall sick in this situation. Anyone who falls sick, expect if he is a child will have to fight it out on his/her own. Fate will take it is cause. If you can not survive the sickness accept to die. We shall not sell a few of our potatoes in order to take you to the nearest hospital. Sorry we can not do that. It will be a very big blow if any of the children chooses to fall sick at this worst time. The lucky ones will be taken to the bush and provided with some herbs.
Housing and clothing .Soap has been scraped from our budget. Luxuries like clothing have been removed with immediate effect. Whoever misplaces a few of the clothing will not expect a replacement. We have also resolved not to repair our old house in the village despite the fact that it is showing signs of collapse. This will enable us save money for meals in these hard times.
We also resolved not to request for aid from our leaders because experience as shown that in such difficult times, it is the leaders that benefit most. The situation to others may seem blink, but we are confident that, with these sound and solid resolutions, we shall sail through the hard times and bounce back in September, 2009.
Now, we have resolved to find ways of surviving this economic slow down. Firstly, as a family, we have put some measures with immediate effect that might not be pleasant to family members. We have arrived at these decisions after heavy and difficult deliberations.
You might be wondering why we are taking radical measures to cut down the family budget. The reasons are various. Number one, the cost of doing business across the world, so we are told has become extremely expensive so our regular shop keeper has hiked all prices of all the commodities that we used to buy from him. Secondly, our people have not been able to produce enough food in the recent times as a consequence increasing conflicts and bad weather. Thirdly, the level of inflation is increasing every day across our country-our money is losing value.
Now, these measures here below are meant to have the family afloat until September, 2009 when the situation is expected to normalize.
Meals. With immediate effect, we shall only have one meal a day instead of the usual three. This meal will comprise of sweet potatoes mixed with beans. The kids have been so keen in asking about jam and bread every morning. This has been scrapped. Break fast will be replaced with roasted maize and water served to children only. This will also be scrapped in the next three month.
Lunch will be a preserve for the children and will be served on merit. Any child above the age of five will not be entitled to lunch. The lunch will be strictly composed of porridge without sugar. This is also subject to change as the conditions become tough. With these friendly measures, we shall be able to save something for the next meal.
Even our one day meal will be strictly rationed. The children will take priority number one followed by the women and elders respectively. We shall reduce the number of potatoes every day until the economic situations stabilizes. In the subsequent weeks, the elders will select to eat these prestigious meals in turns. These again will enable us save for the next year.
Health. We have also resolved as a family not to fall sick in this situation. Anyone who falls sick, expect if he is a child will have to fight it out on his/her own. Fate will take it is cause. If you can not survive the sickness accept to die. We shall not sell a few of our potatoes in order to take you to the nearest hospital. Sorry we can not do that. It will be a very big blow if any of the children chooses to fall sick at this worst time. The lucky ones will be taken to the bush and provided with some herbs.
Housing and clothing .Soap has been scraped from our budget. Luxuries like clothing have been removed with immediate effect. Whoever misplaces a few of the clothing will not expect a replacement. We have also resolved not to repair our old house in the village despite the fact that it is showing signs of collapse. This will enable us save money for meals in these hard times.
We also resolved not to request for aid from our leaders because experience as shown that in such difficult times, it is the leaders that benefit most. The situation to others may seem blink, but we are confident that, with these sound and solid resolutions, we shall sail through the hard times and bounce back in September, 2009.
Monday, September 1, 2008
LETTER TO MY LOVE
Betty,
I know today is your birth. I feel sad I have to work and not attend to your birth day celebrations. These are occupational hazards that, we are faced. I will see you over the weekend. It is sad our son is sick. Get time and check on him in kampala, tommorrow.
I dedicate the article about the suffering of our people here below to you.
I know today is your birth. I feel sad I have to work and not attend to your birth day celebrations. These are occupational hazards that, we are faced. I will see you over the weekend. It is sad our son is sick. Get time and check on him in kampala, tommorrow.
I dedicate the article about the suffering of our people here below to you.
LETTER TO MY LOVE
Betty,
I know today is your birth. I feel sad I have to work and not attend to your birth day. This are occupational hazards that we are faced. I will see you over the weekend. It is sad our son is sick. Get time and check on him in kampala, tommorrow.
I dedicate the article about the suffering of our people here below to you.
I know today is your birth. I feel sad I have to work and not attend to your birth day. This are occupational hazards that we are faced. I will see you over the weekend. It is sad our son is sick. Get time and check on him in kampala, tommorrow.
I dedicate the article about the suffering of our people here below to you.
A GIANT STRUGGLES
Uganda is known in the international media for having the most ‘dictatorial’ president- Idi Amin, for the civil strife in the north and increased poverty in upcountry regions.
Little is known or spoken about the eastern region, 500 km east of the capital, Kampala. This is Teso region. This area was popularly known for it is hard working and humble people and being a cattle corridor in Uganda.
This region has gone through many changes. The region since time immemorial has been suffering from chronic cattle raids exerted by militant neighbors. In the early 1960s, it was known for it is many cattle and being the greatest producer of cotton in East Africa. This came to a stand still in the mid 1980s, when the cattle raids intensified and pushed many people here to near braking point of poverty, famine and disease. Life has never been the same again here.
The area was further worsened when the local people attempted to raise arms against the new government in power led by Yoweri Museveni in the 1990s. This period was the worst in the history of Teso. Famine and lose of life pushed Uganda’s known food basket grower to a quigmire.
Local people suffered. Education systems broke down and diseases like HIV/AIDS become prevalent.
For people who have been here in 1986, 1994 and 2007 will tell three things in common. In 1986 many people lost their only livelihood (cattle) to cattle rustlers and were left at the mercy of misery. Analysts keep on wondering if the economy of Teso was left to strife as it been by then, the people of Teso would be far away by now.
In 1994, people faced starvation with some leaders challenging local people to produce evidence of dead bodies to prove that famine was looming in the region.As a matter of fact, the famine was so great that it forced people to eat potatoes’ pilings and lizards. Emaciated women with pale faces carrying equally mulnourished children was a common sight country side.
Then in 2007, the floods came and swept across the country. It destroyed roads, crops and killed people. It called for government intervention in order to address the anomaly. Speeches were made, pledges recited eloquently and aray of hope was painted on people's mind. All passed in thin air.
These are some striking events. However to not to forget other events and probably the severe one was in June 2003, when Joseph Kony and his bandits tried to destabilize Teso region. With the support of local leaders, Kony was summarily stopped from advancing to Teso region.
Unfortunately, historians are not tracing the primary fall of Kony to that point. The historians should be reminded that, what pushed Kony to negotiations was the greatest onslaught put on his troops by the people of Teso. No credit has been given to Teso for this gallant achievement.
Despite all those challenges, Iteso people known for their hard work are struggling to meet their livelihood in a hard way.The region has peaceful and humble people always under attack by militan neigbours. Some associations of Iteso in Western cities like London are discussing on how to reawaken the sleeping giant and restore the lost glory of the region. These are individuals and sons of Teso living Europe, who want to bring life to their cradle land.
The only hope that, the region has is education. Known of producing the best nuclear and medical professors in the recent times, this is now but alas.It is becoming over thirty years since Teso produced any person with reputable PHD degree. In some sub counties, there are hardly any unviersity graduates. People here are investing in education of their children as the only hope of the future.
Government time and time again has been saying the region is NOT neglected or marginalized in anyway. It has also come out clearly that, it did not have a hand in the alleged plundering the wealth of people in Teso in the recent past. Of course, these are allegations that are advanced by locals here but it is not publicly spoken.
To demonstrate it is commitment in reviving the economy of Teso region, Government has brought all the necessary projects like Northern Uganda social Action Fund, primary health care, safe and clean water for all, primary education and National Agricultural Advisory Services nearer to the people.
For example, Local communities are asked to form groups so as to benefit from government programmes. This is all coined in President Museveni's slogan of WEALTH FOR ALL.
Government is also disarming militant neighbors terrorizing Teso.
Analysts say the region will take long to revive it is lost glory. They argue that, the Members of parliament elected to represent people’s views are suffering from identity crisis. Analysts argue that MPs are busy making money for their cronies and henchmen at the expense of the local community.
Legislators especially on the opposition side have vehemently denied these allegations saying their work is to legislate and check excesses of government in power.
Uganda’s coverage of the northern war Kony killings and increased starvation is one of the central issues dominate international media about Uganda.
In one remote of the country is Teso region most commonly known ever since colonialism for its traditional cattle and cotton growing is now in slumber?
The region was known as the basket of food for Uganda was plugged near to a comma in the mid 1980s when the people’s livelihood was destated by cattle rustling.
Since then, the region ahs
Little is known or spoken about the eastern region, 500 km east of the capital, Kampala. This is Teso region. This area was popularly known for it is hard working and humble people and being a cattle corridor in Uganda.
This region has gone through many changes. The region since time immemorial has been suffering from chronic cattle raids exerted by militant neighbors. In the early 1960s, it was known for it is many cattle and being the greatest producer of cotton in East Africa. This came to a stand still in the mid 1980s, when the cattle raids intensified and pushed many people here to near braking point of poverty, famine and disease. Life has never been the same again here.
The area was further worsened when the local people attempted to raise arms against the new government in power led by Yoweri Museveni in the 1990s. This period was the worst in the history of Teso. Famine and lose of life pushed Uganda’s known food basket grower to a quigmire.
Local people suffered. Education systems broke down and diseases like HIV/AIDS become prevalent.
For people who have been here in 1986, 1994 and 2007 will tell three things in common. In 1986 many people lost their only livelihood (cattle) to cattle rustlers and were left at the mercy of misery. Analysts keep on wondering if the economy of Teso was left to strife as it been by then, the people of Teso would be far away by now.
In 1994, people faced starvation with some leaders challenging local people to produce evidence of dead bodies to prove that famine was looming in the region.As a matter of fact, the famine was so great that it forced people to eat potatoes’ pilings and lizards. Emaciated women with pale faces carrying equally mulnourished children was a common sight country side.
Then in 2007, the floods came and swept across the country. It destroyed roads, crops and killed people. It called for government intervention in order to address the anomaly. Speeches were made, pledges recited eloquently and aray of hope was painted on people's mind. All passed in thin air.
These are some striking events. However to not to forget other events and probably the severe one was in June 2003, when Joseph Kony and his bandits tried to destabilize Teso region. With the support of local leaders, Kony was summarily stopped from advancing to Teso region.
Unfortunately, historians are not tracing the primary fall of Kony to that point. The historians should be reminded that, what pushed Kony to negotiations was the greatest onslaught put on his troops by the people of Teso. No credit has been given to Teso for this gallant achievement.
Despite all those challenges, Iteso people known for their hard work are struggling to meet their livelihood in a hard way.The region has peaceful and humble people always under attack by militan neigbours. Some associations of Iteso in Western cities like London are discussing on how to reawaken the sleeping giant and restore the lost glory of the region. These are individuals and sons of Teso living Europe, who want to bring life to their cradle land.
The only hope that, the region has is education. Known of producing the best nuclear and medical professors in the recent times, this is now but alas.It is becoming over thirty years since Teso produced any person with reputable PHD degree. In some sub counties, there are hardly any unviersity graduates. People here are investing in education of their children as the only hope of the future.
Government time and time again has been saying the region is NOT neglected or marginalized in anyway. It has also come out clearly that, it did not have a hand in the alleged plundering the wealth of people in Teso in the recent past. Of course, these are allegations that are advanced by locals here but it is not publicly spoken.
To demonstrate it is commitment in reviving the economy of Teso region, Government has brought all the necessary projects like Northern Uganda social Action Fund, primary health care, safe and clean water for all, primary education and National Agricultural Advisory Services nearer to the people.
For example, Local communities are asked to form groups so as to benefit from government programmes. This is all coined in President Museveni's slogan of WEALTH FOR ALL.
Government is also disarming militant neighbors terrorizing Teso.
Analysts say the region will take long to revive it is lost glory. They argue that, the Members of parliament elected to represent people’s views are suffering from identity crisis. Analysts argue that MPs are busy making money for their cronies and henchmen at the expense of the local community.
Legislators especially on the opposition side have vehemently denied these allegations saying their work is to legislate and check excesses of government in power.
Uganda’s coverage of the northern war Kony killings and increased starvation is one of the central issues dominate international media about Uganda.
In one remote of the country is Teso region most commonly known ever since colonialism for its traditional cattle and cotton growing is now in slumber?
The region was known as the basket of food for Uganda was plugged near to a comma in the mid 1980s when the people’s livelihood was destated by cattle rustling.
Since then, the region ahs
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
PROSPERTY FOR ALL
We must become rich through modern agricultural practices. This was the message President Museveni has been preaching in the last two weeks during his tour in Teso region. President Museveni is known to be so passionate with the peasant class. He has been working hard to ensure that poverty, disease and ignorance are completely rooted out of Uganda.
He has been going around teso region telling people, we all must be rich in the villages. Giving himself as a model farmer, he says he makes more money from farming than the salary he gets being a president. Museveni has a ranch in his home region of Ankole, where he has thousands of cattle for milk and beef production. Museveni says Government has been building schools, providing primary health care but it had not embarked on the Prosperity For All progamme. Now is the time for peasants to become rich through modern farming practices.
In his agenda Museveni wants all peasant farmers to earn an income of 20 Million Uganda shillings per year (about 10,000 dollars) in each home stead. He wants farmers to have a daily, a monthly and quarterly income throughout the year.
This gospel has excited local communities. Whenever he went Museveni met peasants struggling to make a living through growing oranges, rearing goats and cattle. He has asked local government leaders to support farmers through provision of agricultural advisory services and inputs.
His government has been releasing money to local governments in order to make this a reality. Unfortunately in some areas, the money was swindled and much of it spent on endless workshops instead of assisting farmers. Because he does not want his agenda to fail, Museveni has been tough on local leaders on these funds.
For the last twenty two years, Museveni has been power at least for now, the opposition leaders seem to agree with him that, our people must become rich through farming.
He has been going around teso region telling people, we all must be rich in the villages. Giving himself as a model farmer, he says he makes more money from farming than the salary he gets being a president. Museveni has a ranch in his home region of Ankole, where he has thousands of cattle for milk and beef production. Museveni says Government has been building schools, providing primary health care but it had not embarked on the Prosperity For All progamme. Now is the time for peasants to become rich through modern farming practices.
In his agenda Museveni wants all peasant farmers to earn an income of 20 Million Uganda shillings per year (about 10,000 dollars) in each home stead. He wants farmers to have a daily, a monthly and quarterly income throughout the year.
This gospel has excited local communities. Whenever he went Museveni met peasants struggling to make a living through growing oranges, rearing goats and cattle. He has asked local government leaders to support farmers through provision of agricultural advisory services and inputs.
His government has been releasing money to local governments in order to make this a reality. Unfortunately in some areas, the money was swindled and much of it spent on endless workshops instead of assisting farmers. Because he does not want his agenda to fail, Museveni has been tough on local leaders on these funds.
For the last twenty two years, Museveni has been power at least for now, the opposition leaders seem to agree with him that, our people must become rich through farming.
Monday, August 18, 2008
OLYMPICS IS A WASTE OF TIME
Call me an extremist, insane or whatever. I do not care. But I will not let this point go escort free without a challenge. Iam talking about your trade disguised as games and having a name rumbling like wind called Olympics. Countries have spent millions of their dollars in order to send athletes to participate in this thing….Money that could be used to construct health units, provide scholastics materials to children and buy farm inputs to starving peasants in Africa. It is not fair!!!
Whoever came with this idea must be some brilliant fool. Imagine millions of people assembling in China and chasing the wind? What will the world lose if Olympics or the world cup was postponed in one year and all the proceeds sent to Africa for reconstruction and development? What would really be lost in an Olympics tournament? Do not tell me of Unity!!
If you feel hurt by these comments you can close this blog and proceed and read another one. But before you do that remember that the so- called international sports you are worshipping is creating small gods, building business empires for a few and serves no human purpose. It only creates humiliations and glory to those countries that have vested interests.
My country has for long wanted to get a medal from Olympics but in vain. I do not believe that we can not produce people who can run…. people with some skills. If you want to know how strong we are see how we have defied extinction under chronic poverty, exploitation, ignorance and disease. We have managed to survive under harsh and tough conditions. The medals we have won are written all over our faces and not in Olympics pieces of metal. Our medals run in our blood!
The last time, we won gold in an Olympics games was in 1972. The legend goes like this: that our leader Idi Amin (whom you like to demonize so much) had issued an instruction to our gallant man Akiibwa that, you should just run so fast without looking behind. If you do not come with a gold medal, immediately you land at the airport, I will shoot you. It is said that, this alone motivated Akiibwa to run like a wild beast. You racists did not give Akiibwa any praise until he humiliated you in those 400 huddles. Someone should listen to that commentary as Akiibwa sent Munich crowd to dead silence, if you are to understand my point.
Since then, we have longed for an Olympics medal but in vain. (I do not know why we need these metal medals? I will ask our minister of sports this question). The last time we won something from a major world sports record was when Dorkus Inzukuru humiliated the racists by wining GOLD. All the big business men with shamless faces and saliva dripping as usual surrounded her. i pity them.The whole country came to a stand still. Parliament was immediately constituted and a motion was moved to recognize this unique achievement. And that was it. Dorcus was probably, our only hope of getting gold in China but due to other factors (you should understand when I say other factors) she did not make it.
I have failed to understand the politics involved in wining medals in international sports. Somebody there should give me the formula. Oh yap, people say it brings glory, fame and honor to the athlete and country. Point taken! But sometimes your medals bring disgrace. Some times, a person really runs and you see that the fellow has won gold, no doubt. Take Marion Jones for example….. She won gold in most major events in 2000. We all believed the girl was talented and a superstar, until she recently confessed taking drugs. What a disappointment!!
Now Jamaicans have made it in China. One broke a world record and three all won medals in one particular even that they all participated. Is it coincidental? What was the secret? Are they special? You draw your on own conclusions. Keep your eye open, your ear on the ground and you will see and hear the truth!
We in Uganda still are waiting since 1972 to win our fast gold medal. I am optimistic that Uganda will win METAL in London come 2012 games. I am convinced London will remember that, we were once their colony and have suffered long without this piece of mental. This is just the public part of me saying so. However, If you asked me critically whether to receive glory from winning a gold medal in London and canceling those games so that a state of art learning facility is built in Uganda……i will definitely go for the later. I would also tell you Olympics are just a game for the rich and a waste of time. In fact, we do not talk much about it in our village. We have better things to talk about. We keep on wondering on how to budget for the one dollar for the day, keep wondering whether there will be food tomorrow. The life we are living is just misery and never satisfying. Our lives have been just the same-full of worries. We look at the future and it is just empty!!!!
Whoever came with this idea must be some brilliant fool. Imagine millions of people assembling in China and chasing the wind? What will the world lose if Olympics or the world cup was postponed in one year and all the proceeds sent to Africa for reconstruction and development? What would really be lost in an Olympics tournament? Do not tell me of Unity!!
If you feel hurt by these comments you can close this blog and proceed and read another one. But before you do that remember that the so- called international sports you are worshipping is creating small gods, building business empires for a few and serves no human purpose. It only creates humiliations and glory to those countries that have vested interests.
My country has for long wanted to get a medal from Olympics but in vain. I do not believe that we can not produce people who can run…. people with some skills. If you want to know how strong we are see how we have defied extinction under chronic poverty, exploitation, ignorance and disease. We have managed to survive under harsh and tough conditions. The medals we have won are written all over our faces and not in Olympics pieces of metal. Our medals run in our blood!
The last time, we won gold in an Olympics games was in 1972. The legend goes like this: that our leader Idi Amin (whom you like to demonize so much) had issued an instruction to our gallant man Akiibwa that, you should just run so fast without looking behind. If you do not come with a gold medal, immediately you land at the airport, I will shoot you. It is said that, this alone motivated Akiibwa to run like a wild beast. You racists did not give Akiibwa any praise until he humiliated you in those 400 huddles. Someone should listen to that commentary as Akiibwa sent Munich crowd to dead silence, if you are to understand my point.
Since then, we have longed for an Olympics medal but in vain. (I do not know why we need these metal medals? I will ask our minister of sports this question). The last time we won something from a major world sports record was when Dorkus Inzukuru humiliated the racists by wining GOLD. All the big business men with shamless faces and saliva dripping as usual surrounded her. i pity them.The whole country came to a stand still. Parliament was immediately constituted and a motion was moved to recognize this unique achievement. And that was it. Dorcus was probably, our only hope of getting gold in China but due to other factors (you should understand when I say other factors) she did not make it.
I have failed to understand the politics involved in wining medals in international sports. Somebody there should give me the formula. Oh yap, people say it brings glory, fame and honor to the athlete and country. Point taken! But sometimes your medals bring disgrace. Some times, a person really runs and you see that the fellow has won gold, no doubt. Take Marion Jones for example….. She won gold in most major events in 2000. We all believed the girl was talented and a superstar, until she recently confessed taking drugs. What a disappointment!!
Now Jamaicans have made it in China. One broke a world record and three all won medals in one particular even that they all participated. Is it coincidental? What was the secret? Are they special? You draw your on own conclusions. Keep your eye open, your ear on the ground and you will see and hear the truth!
We in Uganda still are waiting since 1972 to win our fast gold medal. I am optimistic that Uganda will win METAL in London come 2012 games. I am convinced London will remember that, we were once their colony and have suffered long without this piece of mental. This is just the public part of me saying so. However, If you asked me critically whether to receive glory from winning a gold medal in London and canceling those games so that a state of art learning facility is built in Uganda……i will definitely go for the later. I would also tell you Olympics are just a game for the rich and a waste of time. In fact, we do not talk much about it in our village. We have better things to talk about. We keep on wondering on how to budget for the one dollar for the day, keep wondering whether there will be food tomorrow. The life we are living is just misery and never satisfying. Our lives have been just the same-full of worries. We look at the future and it is just empty!!!!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
YOU RACIST, GO AWAY
Today, I am standing on dangerous ground. Many people shy away from discussing this point. It is sensitive, explosive and dangerous to handle it especially if you are black and living in the so-called developed country where the colour of your skin attracts insults.
Up to now, I am still disturbed and can not believe a young man travels out of his country and he is beaten and insulted just because of the colour of his colour. This is what happened to Egessa, our Ugandan brother who had traveled to Ukraine for further studies. Egessa came face to face with the Skin Heads in that country and got beaten near death three times. Of course not only did he come back with MBA degree but also nine stitches on his lips and a fractured knee. Egessa’s story has been making headlines here in Uganda.
I have not yet come to terms with racism. Why should you hate me because I am black? Why? I have read comments of African footballers who endure day to day racism and insults in Europe even when they have proved beyond reasonable doubt that they are the best. Why do you beat and insult us, YOU RACIST? We did not apply to be black? Of course, there is this talk by authorities that, tough measures are in place to stop racism. It only remains some cheap talk.
When foreigners came to Uganda or any African country, we treat them with kid gloves. We volunteer to show them directions, when they get lost. We sensitize our people on the need to be hospitable and nice to our visitors. Even when foreigners do not want to greet us in our country, we volunteer to say, Hallo and smile with our black faces. Ask any foreigner, who has come to Uganda and he/she will tell how friendly and nice our people are. Unfortunately, when we show good manners, we are mistaken to be morons. Quite disturbing!!!
I am not saying we are angles. Of course, we have some challenges but we are not that uncivilized and barbaric has exhibited by Egeesa’s attackers. To Egeesas’ attackers, you will be surprised if you came to Uganda or any African country and are treated better than you are in your so-called developed country. You can long for my blood, but you will not get a piece of me to insult, chewe or bite. SORRY!!!
Calling us (read black people) monkeys that are not welcome to western countries is not a solution. Who cares about the colour of my skin? I do not care myself. Actually, I am proud that I am dark. I wish I was darker than I am now. Yes, darker than the abyss and more bushy than a monkey, if you like!!! unfortunately, If we are to discuss the merit and demerits of our races, the world would develop into another catastrophe.
Let me give you a dose to bite, chew and swallow There was a certain funny professor (I call him funny, because there was nothing substantial good from his studies) who alleged that all blacks are less intelligent than any other race. My foot!! The fellow had to withdraw his statements. What does he think of brains like Barrack Obama, Powel, Rice, and Mandela? If you think blacks are less good just look at the recent Olympics 100 meters race. Count how many in that final lines were black people? Who is holding the current 9.69 seconds World Record for that race? What would you think, you racist, of Mohammed Ali, Pele, Michael Jordan, Michael Johnson etc? You find the answers!!!
Now there is also this hopeless feeling of black people living in the developed world especially exhibited by the Jamaicans and black Americans. Jamaicans, I am meant to understand do not want to be associated with black African people. Those who have traveled abroad say that a black man in the streets of New York would run away on discovering that you are from Africa. You had better get direction from a white man and not a black man. You idiots, how can you deny you ancestry when actually your colour shows that you are part of us?
You racist's, go away!!
Up to now, I am still disturbed and can not believe a young man travels out of his country and he is beaten and insulted just because of the colour of his colour. This is what happened to Egessa, our Ugandan brother who had traveled to Ukraine for further studies. Egessa came face to face with the Skin Heads in that country and got beaten near death three times. Of course not only did he come back with MBA degree but also nine stitches on his lips and a fractured knee. Egessa’s story has been making headlines here in Uganda.
I have not yet come to terms with racism. Why should you hate me because I am black? Why? I have read comments of African footballers who endure day to day racism and insults in Europe even when they have proved beyond reasonable doubt that they are the best. Why do you beat and insult us, YOU RACIST? We did not apply to be black? Of course, there is this talk by authorities that, tough measures are in place to stop racism. It only remains some cheap talk.
When foreigners came to Uganda or any African country, we treat them with kid gloves. We volunteer to show them directions, when they get lost. We sensitize our people on the need to be hospitable and nice to our visitors. Even when foreigners do not want to greet us in our country, we volunteer to say, Hallo and smile with our black faces. Ask any foreigner, who has come to Uganda and he/she will tell how friendly and nice our people are. Unfortunately, when we show good manners, we are mistaken to be morons. Quite disturbing!!!
I am not saying we are angles. Of course, we have some challenges but we are not that uncivilized and barbaric has exhibited by Egeesa’s attackers. To Egeesas’ attackers, you will be surprised if you came to Uganda or any African country and are treated better than you are in your so-called developed country. You can long for my blood, but you will not get a piece of me to insult, chewe or bite. SORRY!!!
Calling us (read black people) monkeys that are not welcome to western countries is not a solution. Who cares about the colour of my skin? I do not care myself. Actually, I am proud that I am dark. I wish I was darker than I am now. Yes, darker than the abyss and more bushy than a monkey, if you like!!! unfortunately, If we are to discuss the merit and demerits of our races, the world would develop into another catastrophe.
Let me give you a dose to bite, chew and swallow There was a certain funny professor (I call him funny, because there was nothing substantial good from his studies) who alleged that all blacks are less intelligent than any other race. My foot!! The fellow had to withdraw his statements. What does he think of brains like Barrack Obama, Powel, Rice, and Mandela? If you think blacks are less good just look at the recent Olympics 100 meters race. Count how many in that final lines were black people? Who is holding the current 9.69 seconds World Record for that race? What would you think, you racist, of Mohammed Ali, Pele, Michael Jordan, Michael Johnson etc? You find the answers!!!
Now there is also this hopeless feeling of black people living in the developed world especially exhibited by the Jamaicans and black Americans. Jamaicans, I am meant to understand do not want to be associated with black African people. Those who have traveled abroad say that a black man in the streets of New York would run away on discovering that you are from Africa. You had better get direction from a white man and not a black man. You idiots, how can you deny you ancestry when actually your colour shows that you are part of us?
You racist's, go away!!
Saturday, August 16, 2008
MUM, I LOVE YOU
I have been working lately so hard. I had wanted to go home this weekend to meet my daughter and son. I think they are terribly missing me. I called Betty this evening. Suprisingly, she was in a jolly mood.In some incidenences,when i take long without going home, she has that tendency of being moody.
Now, Iam coming into terms with what i heard from the BBC's Last Word, were a man resigned his job because he was tired of travelling several kilometres every day. He had wanted to be with his family.By that time, i thought, this is damm silly and pure madness. How can a man resign a well paying Job just to sit home watching his wife and children playing? This was unacceptable!!!
I knew a man must work harder and harder no matter what. And indeed, that is exactly, what iam doing- working over 12 hours a day. Now i am faced with a similar predicament of the guy who wrote his Last Word. True, i work hard but i can not even meet the basics.Where is all the money going? Iam always struggling to buy sugar, food, clothing for my son and daughter. I say, where is the money going? Besides, i miss my family so much. Now, shouldI RESIGN my job so that i play with the kids at home? The answer is no.
" Boy, you got to move on !!! There are many people out, who want your support. Think about you mum? Boy, you need to remain focused, determined and resilient, maybe one day LADY LUCK will come your way. Keep moving boy", the inner voice tells me. It is like i listen to this voice so much.
I have been reflecting andreflecting on these private issues lately. Then the worst nightmare is how i miss my mother. The last time, i went home to the village to see mum was in November,2007. I promised to continue to visit her but to date i have not. Iam begining to feel guilty especially when she sent my young cousin saying she is WEAK and SICK. I really felt the blow of a mother wanting to see her son. Mum, i love you so much. I have promised several times as far as i am STILL a live you will be leading some decent life. My sister passed away ten years ago and left mum with a paraylsed girl. The girl is now making twenty years. I think this could be one of those things now giving mum sleepless nights.
Again ever since, i begun contrusting for her a house in 2002, i have more or less failed to complete it. When i look at her old house built in 1966, i feel so sorry for mama despite all the challenges and sacrify she made to see her four children all go to school. She has toiled all her life so that, her children get a decent life. Here i am the so-called educated african boy, i can not even provide enough to mama. i feel i have betrayed her trust. i have failed to make her happy yet she has put much hope in me. When i reflect on some of these things, i t makes me feel sad.WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO TELL MUM THANKYOU?
Maybe i should contact my friend again and receive some advise. Erica, if you are reading this blog, i need your assistance. Probably, it could not be material but spiritual and emotional support.
Guys, you have to bear with me i donot know what i am writing this evening. I am reflecting back on A PRIVATE MATTER and the challenges that we in the rural areas undergo. I could go on and on? How many of the poor are suffering and no body is coming to their rescue? I know , this era is not for blamism (i know this word does not exist in english). This is the time to face reality on the face squarely and agree that, we need better cooperations between the poor and rich. We need to put aside egoistic principles of capitalism, racism and live as one people in one planet.
America, America, America, brake the neck of this suffering. America, i say brake the york of world suffering. I know life is a sacrifce. How can we make the suffering be happy? How can we put a smile on the faces of mulnourished children? We are tired of being second class citizens on this planet.
Now, Iam coming into terms with what i heard from the BBC's Last Word, were a man resigned his job because he was tired of travelling several kilometres every day. He had wanted to be with his family.By that time, i thought, this is damm silly and pure madness. How can a man resign a well paying Job just to sit home watching his wife and children playing? This was unacceptable!!!
I knew a man must work harder and harder no matter what. And indeed, that is exactly, what iam doing- working over 12 hours a day. Now i am faced with a similar predicament of the guy who wrote his Last Word. True, i work hard but i can not even meet the basics.Where is all the money going? Iam always struggling to buy sugar, food, clothing for my son and daughter. I say, where is the money going? Besides, i miss my family so much. Now, shouldI RESIGN my job so that i play with the kids at home? The answer is no.
" Boy, you got to move on !!! There are many people out, who want your support. Think about you mum? Boy, you need to remain focused, determined and resilient, maybe one day LADY LUCK will come your way. Keep moving boy", the inner voice tells me. It is like i listen to this voice so much.
I have been reflecting andreflecting on these private issues lately. Then the worst nightmare is how i miss my mother. The last time, i went home to the village to see mum was in November,2007. I promised to continue to visit her but to date i have not. Iam begining to feel guilty especially when she sent my young cousin saying she is WEAK and SICK. I really felt the blow of a mother wanting to see her son. Mum, i love you so much. I have promised several times as far as i am STILL a live you will be leading some decent life. My sister passed away ten years ago and left mum with a paraylsed girl. The girl is now making twenty years. I think this could be one of those things now giving mum sleepless nights.
Again ever since, i begun contrusting for her a house in 2002, i have more or less failed to complete it. When i look at her old house built in 1966, i feel so sorry for mama despite all the challenges and sacrify she made to see her four children all go to school. She has toiled all her life so that, her children get a decent life. Here i am the so-called educated african boy, i can not even provide enough to mama. i feel i have betrayed her trust. i have failed to make her happy yet she has put much hope in me. When i reflect on some of these things, i t makes me feel sad.WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO TELL MUM THANKYOU?
Maybe i should contact my friend again and receive some advise. Erica, if you are reading this blog, i need your assistance. Probably, it could not be material but spiritual and emotional support.
Guys, you have to bear with me i donot know what i am writing this evening. I am reflecting back on A PRIVATE MATTER and the challenges that we in the rural areas undergo. I could go on and on? How many of the poor are suffering and no body is coming to their rescue? I know , this era is not for blamism (i know this word does not exist in english). This is the time to face reality on the face squarely and agree that, we need better cooperations between the poor and rich. We need to put aside egoistic principles of capitalism, racism and live as one people in one planet.
America, America, America, brake the neck of this suffering. America, i say brake the york of world suffering. I know life is a sacrifce. How can we make the suffering be happy? How can we put a smile on the faces of mulnourished children? We are tired of being second class citizens on this planet.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
FACE TO FACE WITH A SCAMMER
Readers of this blog should be wondering why i have not written. Iam about to run out of excuses. It is not out of my own making but the nature of work and access to some of these facilities which is a challenge.
I have been wondering up and down to shaking of poverty off my back but in vain.While People out there are very busy conning people at any slightest opportunity. This just damm silly. There are genuine people actually seeking out assistance from people but the manner in which internet thieves have invaded it is just difficult to trust any one.
Recently, i read in the papers one of the most reputable organisations here had be declared a scam organisation in a certain western country. Police was holding a preist for running a non-existent University. I just lay down and say, probably i should not ask any one anything no matter what. Let me suffer locally. A friend recently, sent me an email inquiring whether i have problems accessing internet. Ofcourse it is a big problem accessing internet here. The other part of me was saying, i think i should ask this person to send me a laptop, a camera and a recorder for day to day work. The other part of me was saying no you could be easliy be mistaken of a scamer.
Internet thieves especially in the less privilged countries have mastered ways of conning their fellow people and others under several ways. I have been receiving messages from scammers and interestingly, the fellows have not been able to have a break through. Just two quick examples was one called Musa. Musa was claiming to be working as an accoutant and a custodian of property of some white people who perished in Kenya. He was so convincing that, if he had got some desperate school kid, he would have succeded in conning the fellow. I feel so sorry for him because he realy tried to put a spirited effort to con me of money.
I have reproduced my communication with the so-called Musa. I beg you read it to the end. Here goes:
--- On Mon, 7/21/08, malim musa wrote:
From: malim musa
Subject: URGENT REPLY IS NEEDEDTo: Date: Monday, July 21, 2008, 3:31 AM
FROM: DR MALIM MUSA
BILL AND EXCHANGE MANAGER
AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK (A.D.B) OUAGADOUGOU-BURKINA FASO
DEAR FRIEND,
THIS MESSAGE MIGHT MEET YOU IN UTMOST SURPRISE HOWEVER,IT'S JUST MY URGENT NEED FOR A FOREIGN PARTNER THAT MADE ME CONTACT YOUFOR THIS TRANSACTION. I AM A BANKER BY PROFESSION FROM OUAGADOUGOU-BURKINA FASO IN WEST AFRICA,AND CURRENTLY HOLDING THE POST OF FOREIGN REMMITTANCE MANAGER IN OUR BANK BURKINA FASO OFFICE. I HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY OF TRANSFERING THE LEFT OVER FUNDS( $ 15 MILLION) OF ONE OF MY BANK DECEASED CLIENT WHO DIED IN THE SHARTER PLANE WHICH CRASHED ON MOUNT KENYAN IN THE KENYAN CITY OF SUMBURU ON 21ST JULY,2003 YOU CAN CONFIRM THE GENUINESS OF THE DECEASED DEATH BY CLICKING ON THIS WEB SITEhttp://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/africa/07/20/kenya.crash/index.html HENCE,I AM INVITING YOU FOR A BUSINESS DEAL WHERE THIS MONEY CAN BE SHARED BETWEEN US IN THE RATIO 60/40 IF YOU AGREE TO MY BUSINESS PROPOSAL EAGERLY WAITING FOR YOUR RESPONSE BY SENDING YOUR INFO SO THAT I WILL SEND TO YOU A TEXT OF APPLICATION FORM WHICH YOU WILL FILL AND SEND TO THE BANK FOR THE CAMANCEMENT OF THE TRANSATION.
1 YOUR FULL NAME..........................
2 YOUR PHONE NUMBER..............................
3 YOUR COUNTRY................................
4 YOUR AGE.......................
5 YOUR OCCUPATION............................
6 A COPY OF YOUR PHOTO.............................. best regard
Malim Musa
hope to hear from you soon
Musa,
How will i benefit now. i should first send you the details of my bank account so that you put the money?
Ibrahim
Dear Partner ,
Thanks for picking interest in my proposal. The funds in question does not belong to me ,it belongs to one of our bank deceased client who died in plane crash with his family members hence,there is no one else with the knowledge of the funds in our bank since 5years ago because i am his account officer at the bank before his death hence,i have acces to all his files .
Thus,i feel this is an avenue for you and i to get this funds to ourselves for better use.It is will be impossible for us to lay our hands on this funds until the claiming process has been effected after the complete arrangement of the required paper works in your name at the bank as the sole beneficiary to this funds. I am equally happy that,i can relate you to the deceased as the sole beneficiary to his left over funds $15 million dollars for our mutual benefits towards better future especially when i was his account monitoring officer at our bank before his death .
Basically, My bank client and his entire family was involved in the shater plane which crashed in the Kenyan city of Samburu, which is home to popular game reserves on ,2003. Unfortunately my client and his entire family were among those who where confirmed dead as a result of the crash. Since after their death, I have made several enquiries to their embassy to locate any of my clients relativeto no avail being his account officer, hence I contacted you.
I am contacting you to assist me inretrieving the money left by my client before they get confiscated or declared unserviceable by the bank. Since you have been satisfy about the reality of my proposal believe me that I have all the necessary legal documents that can be used to back up the claim, and I have the answers to any question which the bank might ask you concerning the deceased. I want to bring to your notice that the transaction will be 100% risk free.
All I required from you is to provide a receiving bank account where the fund will be transferred into your favour as the next of kin, and also your honest co-operation to enable us achieve this aim.
I guarantee that this transaction will be executed under a legitimate arrangement that will protect you from any breach of the law.
Finally, having declared your interest to participate in this deal by sending all your required personal infos , I will send you more details of the transaction and also forward to you the text of application you will copy and send to the bank for the commencement of the transaction so that we complete the claiming process without delay.
Do not let greed disturb the smooth running of this transaction claiming process at bank towards our success and better life and assuring future.I plead with you to kindly give my share to me once the claiming process is completed at the bank.
Yours FaithfullyMalim Musa
12,Ave Omar zoesha,
1200,lodegement,
Ouagadougou-Burkina Faso
MUSA,
Now this is very interesting. It is important that you put the client's left over funds in good use. What we need for now i can see is maximum cooperation, truth and genuine relations. I will help you secure these funds from the bank with the immediate effect.
Let us has handle the process in the proper manner as we agree to proceed to make this world a better place to live especially when there are bad banks out there which would like to deprive innocent people like you of the best they have done.
This deal i agree with you should not be mixed with greed as it will spoil our future endovours. What we need now in order for us to proceed safely is as you put it, personal details relating to each other. I know you can handle the process very well.
I had a bank account before i left for a peace mission sometime back but it is now inactive.I WOULD LIKE YOU TO SEND ME YOUR PERSONAL DETAILS SO THAT MY ASSISTANT CAN PROCESS THE DEAL OF THIS TRANSACTION. This should be the simplest way for us to proceed. If you find this option hard, kindly send me some money to enable him re activiate my bank account. You can send the money through western Union.
Alternatively, iam directing our intelligence officers to truck you out in Burkina Faso and work with you for the smooth running of this deal. Please cooperate with them. Just send me your personal details.I will ask Colonel Robinson to work this out. He actually works in our base in Senegal.
This should be the easiet way.The ball is now on your court. I have been quite busy with combat and peace mission activities lately. LET US TREAT THIS MATTER WITH THE SEROIUSNESS AND URGENCY IT DESERVES.
Waiting to hear from you soon, brother. Cheers.
Ibrahim
Dear Ibrahim,
Thanks for your mail well noted .
Below are my details as you have requested but,believe me that i shall appreciate the option of working with Colonel Robinson since we can even use his military influence to achieve our goal without any problem once you follow my instruction perfectly .
Let's forget your in-active bank account since a functioning bank account is the main key success .if it should be reactivated then,we have alerted some officials at the bank hence,you could be called upon for questioning concerning the source of the funds at the arrival of this funds in your bank account .
Below is my complete address :
Mr Malim Musa
12,Ave Omar zoesha,
1200,lodegement,
Ouagadougou-Burkina Faso
Musa,
Why are you making this very complicated? I have talked to our intelligence officers on the ground and they will soon tress you. I have called colonel Robinson and says you should get in touch with him on +256772881426 IMMEDIATELY. He is flying to East Africa before going to Iraq. The faster you get in touch with him the better. Robinson, i should warn you is every complicated military man, so you should take precautions as you talk to him.
I thought you would work with my personal assistant instead of Robinson.But since you have chosen to work with him, fine. Get in touch with me, if he makes it complicated.
I have been busy and do not have a functioning bank account. i had told you to send me some money so that i re activate my account but it seems you did not understand me.
AS a soldier, i am impatient with such behavior. DO YOU WANT THE BANKS TO TAKE AWAY YOUR CLIENTS MONEY? I think not. Let us cooperate. You could also send me your pass port number and country.
Sorry, if i sound tough. it is the miltary training in me that i can not control. WE NEED TO MOVE FAST.
Ibrahim
ibrahim
Continue moving fast
Mr Malim Musa
12,Ave Omar zoesha,
1200,lodegement,
Ouagadougou-Burkina Faso
Musa.
Yes, we are moving fast. The boys have been sending me interesting information about your personal details. Fortunately, they are tressing the computer you are using, using INTRA CONNECTIVITY DOUBLE CHECK VICE MECHANISM ROAMING SETLIGHT(ICDCVMRS). If you do not want to work with them, you better think twice. Robinson, has taken keen interest in this matter and wants to help. He expressed disappointement that, you did not get in touch with you.
YOU SHOULD GIVE ROBINSON CLEAR INFORMATION SO THAT YOU ARE HELPED OUT.
Cheers brother.
Ibrahim
Guys, what do you think about this scam? We had better find ways of removing such people from the net. Next week, i will post about a' young girl' in Senegal who wants me to send her money so that she comes to join me in America. She thinks, i am an American with much money, when actually i am some miserable Ugandan journalist failing to raise even enough for my family. Guys stay cool and let no one fool you around. until then.
I have been wondering up and down to shaking of poverty off my back but in vain.While People out there are very busy conning people at any slightest opportunity. This just damm silly. There are genuine people actually seeking out assistance from people but the manner in which internet thieves have invaded it is just difficult to trust any one.
Recently, i read in the papers one of the most reputable organisations here had be declared a scam organisation in a certain western country. Police was holding a preist for running a non-existent University. I just lay down and say, probably i should not ask any one anything no matter what. Let me suffer locally. A friend recently, sent me an email inquiring whether i have problems accessing internet. Ofcourse it is a big problem accessing internet here. The other part of me was saying, i think i should ask this person to send me a laptop, a camera and a recorder for day to day work. The other part of me was saying no you could be easliy be mistaken of a scamer.
Internet thieves especially in the less privilged countries have mastered ways of conning their fellow people and others under several ways. I have been receiving messages from scammers and interestingly, the fellows have not been able to have a break through. Just two quick examples was one called Musa. Musa was claiming to be working as an accoutant and a custodian of property of some white people who perished in Kenya. He was so convincing that, if he had got some desperate school kid, he would have succeded in conning the fellow. I feel so sorry for him because he realy tried to put a spirited effort to con me of money.
I have reproduced my communication with the so-called Musa. I beg you read it to the end. Here goes:
--- On Mon, 7/21/08, malim musa wrote:
From: malim musa
Subject: URGENT REPLY IS NEEDEDTo: Date: Monday, July 21, 2008, 3:31 AM
FROM: DR MALIM MUSA
BILL AND EXCHANGE MANAGER
AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK (A.D.B) OUAGADOUGOU-BURKINA FASO
DEAR FRIEND,
THIS MESSAGE MIGHT MEET YOU IN UTMOST SURPRISE HOWEVER,IT'S JUST MY URGENT NEED FOR A FOREIGN PARTNER THAT MADE ME CONTACT YOUFOR THIS TRANSACTION. I AM A BANKER BY PROFESSION FROM OUAGADOUGOU-BURKINA FASO IN WEST AFRICA,AND CURRENTLY HOLDING THE POST OF FOREIGN REMMITTANCE MANAGER IN OUR BANK BURKINA FASO OFFICE. I HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY OF TRANSFERING THE LEFT OVER FUNDS( $ 15 MILLION) OF ONE OF MY BANK DECEASED CLIENT WHO DIED IN THE SHARTER PLANE WHICH CRASHED ON MOUNT KENYAN IN THE KENYAN CITY OF SUMBURU ON 21ST JULY,2003 YOU CAN CONFIRM THE GENUINESS OF THE DECEASED DEATH BY CLICKING ON THIS WEB SITEhttp://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/africa/07/20/kenya.crash/index.html HENCE,I AM INVITING YOU FOR A BUSINESS DEAL WHERE THIS MONEY CAN BE SHARED BETWEEN US IN THE RATIO 60/40 IF YOU AGREE TO MY BUSINESS PROPOSAL EAGERLY WAITING FOR YOUR RESPONSE BY SENDING YOUR INFO SO THAT I WILL SEND TO YOU A TEXT OF APPLICATION FORM WHICH YOU WILL FILL AND SEND TO THE BANK FOR THE CAMANCEMENT OF THE TRANSATION.
1 YOUR FULL NAME..........................
2 YOUR PHONE NUMBER..............................
3 YOUR COUNTRY................................
4 YOUR AGE.......................
5 YOUR OCCUPATION............................
6 A COPY OF YOUR PHOTO.............................. best regard
Malim Musa
hope to hear from you soon
Musa,
How will i benefit now. i should first send you the details of my bank account so that you put the money?
Ibrahim
Dear Partner ,
Thanks for picking interest in my proposal. The funds in question does not belong to me ,it belongs to one of our bank deceased client who died in plane crash with his family members hence,there is no one else with the knowledge of the funds in our bank since 5years ago because i am his account officer at the bank before his death hence,i have acces to all his files .
Thus,i feel this is an avenue for you and i to get this funds to ourselves for better use.It is will be impossible for us to lay our hands on this funds until the claiming process has been effected after the complete arrangement of the required paper works in your name at the bank as the sole beneficiary to this funds. I am equally happy that,i can relate you to the deceased as the sole beneficiary to his left over funds $15 million dollars for our mutual benefits towards better future especially when i was his account monitoring officer at our bank before his death .
Basically, My bank client and his entire family was involved in the shater plane which crashed in the Kenyan city of Samburu, which is home to popular game reserves on ,2003. Unfortunately my client and his entire family were among those who where confirmed dead as a result of the crash. Since after their death, I have made several enquiries to their embassy to locate any of my clients relativeto no avail being his account officer, hence I contacted you.
I am contacting you to assist me inretrieving the money left by my client before they get confiscated or declared unserviceable by the bank. Since you have been satisfy about the reality of my proposal believe me that I have all the necessary legal documents that can be used to back up the claim, and I have the answers to any question which the bank might ask you concerning the deceased. I want to bring to your notice that the transaction will be 100% risk free.
All I required from you is to provide a receiving bank account where the fund will be transferred into your favour as the next of kin, and also your honest co-operation to enable us achieve this aim.
I guarantee that this transaction will be executed under a legitimate arrangement that will protect you from any breach of the law.
Finally, having declared your interest to participate in this deal by sending all your required personal infos , I will send you more details of the transaction and also forward to you the text of application you will copy and send to the bank for the commencement of the transaction so that we complete the claiming process without delay.
Do not let greed disturb the smooth running of this transaction claiming process at bank towards our success and better life and assuring future.I plead with you to kindly give my share to me once the claiming process is completed at the bank.
Yours FaithfullyMalim Musa
12,Ave Omar zoesha,
1200,lodegement,
Ouagadougou-Burkina Faso
MUSA,
Now this is very interesting. It is important that you put the client's left over funds in good use. What we need for now i can see is maximum cooperation, truth and genuine relations. I will help you secure these funds from the bank with the immediate effect.
Let us has handle the process in the proper manner as we agree to proceed to make this world a better place to live especially when there are bad banks out there which would like to deprive innocent people like you of the best they have done.
This deal i agree with you should not be mixed with greed as it will spoil our future endovours. What we need now in order for us to proceed safely is as you put it, personal details relating to each other. I know you can handle the process very well.
I had a bank account before i left for a peace mission sometime back but it is now inactive.I WOULD LIKE YOU TO SEND ME YOUR PERSONAL DETAILS SO THAT MY ASSISTANT CAN PROCESS THE DEAL OF THIS TRANSACTION. This should be the simplest way for us to proceed. If you find this option hard, kindly send me some money to enable him re activiate my bank account. You can send the money through western Union.
Alternatively, iam directing our intelligence officers to truck you out in Burkina Faso and work with you for the smooth running of this deal. Please cooperate with them. Just send me your personal details.I will ask Colonel Robinson to work this out. He actually works in our base in Senegal.
This should be the easiet way.The ball is now on your court. I have been quite busy with combat and peace mission activities lately. LET US TREAT THIS MATTER WITH THE SEROIUSNESS AND URGENCY IT DESERVES.
Waiting to hear from you soon, brother. Cheers.
Ibrahim
Dear Ibrahim,
Thanks for your mail well noted .
Below are my details as you have requested but,believe me that i shall appreciate the option of working with Colonel Robinson since we can even use his military influence to achieve our goal without any problem once you follow my instruction perfectly .
Let's forget your in-active bank account since a functioning bank account is the main key success .if it should be reactivated then,we have alerted some officials at the bank hence,you could be called upon for questioning concerning the source of the funds at the arrival of this funds in your bank account .
Below is my complete address :
Mr Malim Musa
12,Ave Omar zoesha,
1200,lodegement,
Ouagadougou-Burkina Faso
Musa,
Why are you making this very complicated? I have talked to our intelligence officers on the ground and they will soon tress you. I have called colonel Robinson and says you should get in touch with him on +256772881426 IMMEDIATELY. He is flying to East Africa before going to Iraq. The faster you get in touch with him the better. Robinson, i should warn you is every complicated military man, so you should take precautions as you talk to him.
I thought you would work with my personal assistant instead of Robinson.But since you have chosen to work with him, fine. Get in touch with me, if he makes it complicated.
I have been busy and do not have a functioning bank account. i had told you to send me some money so that i re activate my account but it seems you did not understand me.
AS a soldier, i am impatient with such behavior. DO YOU WANT THE BANKS TO TAKE AWAY YOUR CLIENTS MONEY? I think not. Let us cooperate. You could also send me your pass port number and country.
Sorry, if i sound tough. it is the miltary training in me that i can not control. WE NEED TO MOVE FAST.
Ibrahim
ibrahim
Continue moving fast
Mr Malim Musa
12,Ave Omar zoesha,
1200,lodegement,
Ouagadougou-Burkina Faso
Musa.
Yes, we are moving fast. The boys have been sending me interesting information about your personal details. Fortunately, they are tressing the computer you are using, using INTRA CONNECTIVITY DOUBLE CHECK VICE MECHANISM ROAMING SETLIGHT(ICDCVMRS). If you do not want to work with them, you better think twice. Robinson, has taken keen interest in this matter and wants to help. He expressed disappointement that, you did not get in touch with you.
YOU SHOULD GIVE ROBINSON CLEAR INFORMATION SO THAT YOU ARE HELPED OUT.
Cheers brother.
Ibrahim
Guys, what do you think about this scam? We had better find ways of removing such people from the net. Next week, i will post about a' young girl' in Senegal who wants me to send her money so that she comes to join me in America. She thinks, i am an American with much money, when actually i am some miserable Ugandan journalist failing to raise even enough for my family. Guys stay cool and let no one fool you around. until then.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Land is life and death here.
I have not been able to write for some time. Not deliberately, but I have been busy editing our local newspaper. So many things have happened so fast that it is hard to believe one month has passed. For example, a member of parliament beating up teachers for alleged drunkenness, to children who have been born with deformed limbs and to communities’ outright conflicts over land. The most shocking of all is the way the communities have reacted on the issue of land.
For example, I was shocked to say the least, to see a young Canadian man being paraded in our local police station for allegedly participating in conning local people of their land. We published the story and it passed just like that.
Land issues are very sensitive here. It is one of those things rated highly here. People have been murdered over land in the recent past. For example, a young man and a father were brutally slaughtered in broad day light by unknown people. In a separate incidence, a young man was shot dead as he was trying to get out of his hut in the night. All these gruesome murders have been linked to conflicts of over land.
The local authorities have not come out clearly with the actual cause and motive but continue insisting that ‘investigations into the matters are ongoing.’ Authorities have also linked these murders to many illegal guns within the communities. Recently, the local authorities issued ultimatum to all illegal guns possessors to surrender their weapons before they swing into action.
Indeed, they have swung into action and made arrests. The most recent was the arrest of four people in possession of illegal guns and alleged killing of a local peasant in the community, here. In the group was a woman.
Government here has been of the view of drafting a law that will give the investors opportunity to get land for development and investment. The thinking behind this argument is that, more jobs will be provided to local people in the long run. Government also further argues that, the law will give more power to land owners. The opposition is seeing it as the rich grabbing land from rightful (very poor people) owners.
However, it appears government and the opposition is locked in a political gymnastics instead of together solving the land equation.
With the relative peace returning to the country side and the defeat of the self styled Lord’s Resistance Army, the issue of land is most likely to be the centre of conflicts in the local communities। Senseless and petty arguments of local boundaries are coming back and if not checked petty killings will continue to crop up and haunt the authorities.
The country apparently requires a proper land policy and law. Government’s attempts to table the land bill to parliament are attracting bigger resistance on the part of opposition. If the two do not work hand in hand to quickly pass the land bill, a bigger conflict within the communities is brewing. We are praying sanity and clear thought prevails over this life and death matter very soon.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Do you like the truth?
Is marriage a private matter or a public issue? What is marital status? When is a person considered legally married? Would it hurt you, if your marital status was made public? Guys out there, you need to answer these questions.
I have searched for the answers in vain. In the last two weeks, we have been publishing a column of people without partners or those with partners and have not declared their positions in public.
The column has generated much public criticism. We have been called all sorts of names. Of course, I feel hurt when some one is hurt. Journalism however is one hell of a profession that you can not fail to hurt some one. We talk about truth, honesty and facts. And it hurts, real deep.
Many do not want to hear their dirt exposed. This is impossible! How shall we be honest, if we tell the truth selectively? You might think the truth is what you think it is. How wrong! Truth must be told even when it hurts. Right? O yes, you will say the truth will set you free.
I have come to realize that people will do anything to kill the truth. My close friend completely not married and has been eloping with a young girl for quite along time is an example. When we published that he was not married, he was furious. The other was a working class girl. She drove to office and engaged me in intellectual arguments. When we asked her marital status, she went ballistic.
“That is my private life that Iam talking about should not be interfered. Leave me alone!” she said and stormed out of the office.
As journalists, we are taught to be tough, resist intimidation and harassment. So was the story defamatory? Hell, no. In our definition, we had categorized all people with no partners and those staying with someone and had not declared their intentions to public as not married.
Were we near the truth? Over to you, my friend!
I have searched for the answers in vain. In the last two weeks, we have been publishing a column of people without partners or those with partners and have not declared their positions in public.
The column has generated much public criticism. We have been called all sorts of names. Of course, I feel hurt when some one is hurt. Journalism however is one hell of a profession that you can not fail to hurt some one. We talk about truth, honesty and facts. And it hurts, real deep.
Many do not want to hear their dirt exposed. This is impossible! How shall we be honest, if we tell the truth selectively? You might think the truth is what you think it is. How wrong! Truth must be told even when it hurts. Right? O yes, you will say the truth will set you free.
I have come to realize that people will do anything to kill the truth. My close friend completely not married and has been eloping with a young girl for quite along time is an example. When we published that he was not married, he was furious. The other was a working class girl. She drove to office and engaged me in intellectual arguments. When we asked her marital status, she went ballistic.
“That is my private life that Iam talking about should not be interfered. Leave me alone!” she said and stormed out of the office.
As journalists, we are taught to be tough, resist intimidation and harassment. So was the story defamatory? Hell, no. In our definition, we had categorized all people with no partners and those staying with someone and had not declared their intentions to public as not married.
Were we near the truth? Over to you, my friend!
Monday, June 9, 2008
How to survive in the third world economy
Guys,
Do not blame me for these wild ideas. They just came at random.
Enjoy!
Never buy a car. You increase your living costs for nothing with the increasing fuel prices.
Never buy food. Grow your own.
Never accept to take a loan. Borrow from a trusted friend. The interest rates for loans are so high and banks have learnt that it is easier to sell cash to poor people.
Never rely on your government for economic support. The support is for the most poor and the desperate. If you rely on it you will die trying to make ends meet.
Never, Never indulge in big ceremonies. They are the e-thing in many African cities. If you do, even the little you saved will fly way.
Never get into intellectual arguments on whether the third world will become rich one day. Such arguments are for academicians, politicians and Journalists.
Never work but work hard and just be smart.
If your father is a minister or a General in the third world country count yourself lucky. Never ask why are people talking of poverty. It is not an intelligent question.
Live each day as it comes and try to make tomorrow better. You are not alone.
Do not blame me for these wild ideas. They just came at random.
Enjoy!
Never buy a car. You increase your living costs for nothing with the increasing fuel prices.
Never buy food. Grow your own.
Never accept to take a loan. Borrow from a trusted friend. The interest rates for loans are so high and banks have learnt that it is easier to sell cash to poor people.
Never rely on your government for economic support. The support is for the most poor and the desperate. If you rely on it you will die trying to make ends meet.
Never, Never indulge in big ceremonies. They are the e-thing in many African cities. If you do, even the little you saved will fly way.
Never get into intellectual arguments on whether the third world will become rich one day. Such arguments are for academicians, politicians and Journalists.
Never work but work hard and just be smart.
If your father is a minister or a General in the third world country count yourself lucky. Never ask why are people talking of poverty. It is not an intelligent question.
Live each day as it comes and try to make tomorrow better. You are not alone.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
