And China puts its stamp on the Dark Continent.
Some news snippets for you:
The President of China, HU Jintao, wound up a seven nation tour of Africa in the Seychelles today. A significant pledge was made to Zambia where the amount of aid will total almost 400 million dollars. Not all Zambians were enthralled though as many traders in that country felt that 20 000 jobs made has to be offset by the loss of revenue from local goods. They say that as tons of Chinese goods pour in so local goods sales would suffer. What those goods are I do not know but there is some disgruntlement. Are the Chinese after cheap copper?
Zimbabwe's US Ambassador Christopher Dell (who, I briefly met in Angola), stated last week that Zimbabwe should stop blaming others for their economic woes. It seems the Zimboys like to blame everyone but themselves for their economic woes. Dell said that sanctions were only in place against 100 important figures in Zimbabwe and that US relations were good with Zimbabwe. He lectured the Zimbabweans on their need to take responsibility for themselves and not use others as scapegoats. Zimbabwe is running at 1200% inflation and 80 % are out of work. Well said, Mr Dell.
Chinese cars continue to proliferate in Africa from Cairo to the Cape. Unlike electronics which are proving fairly reliable, Chinese cars are shaky as far as their build quality and ride is concerned. The word "harsh" would probably seem nice compared to "crap". For some insight go to Yahoocars.com and look up Brilliance.
Another State of the Union address was made by President Mbeki of South Africa this week. He centred on crime but observers say that his suggested methods to combat crime are already in place. Does that mean they are not working or still in the pipe-line? We'll see.
57 men have appeared in court in South Africa charged with being mercenaries intent on overthrowing President Teodoro Mbangu of Equatorial Guinea. What a farce. President Mbangu, long time inadequate leader of the small Spanish speaking EG is one of the most corrupt leaders in Africa. This attempted coup, if you remember, was supposedly orchestrated by the sneaky Mark Thatcher. I am hoping that the men will get short sentences but I suppose the South Africans have to show some support for Mbangu for favours lent. Why they would support a man whose claim to fame is cannibalism beats me.
Goodnight Africa. Blow out the candle before you sleep.