dialogue for Cultural Literacy

Winter Spring 2008 issue-MIGRATions

2007-12-02T11:48:00.000-08:00

Readers can be assured that the Spring 2008 edition of dialogue will be addressing topical issues that have been raised in the current edition. These include: global warming: a riposte from historical climatologist Prof. Timothy Ball; an official boost through an official scientific report from the European community confirming the dangers of EMFs as suggested by our comprehensive study =Mobile Giants against You & Bees.

Other features includes: a tribute to veteran Trinidadian writer/poet & publisher Anson Gonzalez;a brief history of Jamaican music since independence; review of the Liverpool International Slavery Museum in addition to regular features of fine art, poetry, photography, short-stories, commentaries, interviews and a bonus complimentary compilation of world music with the theme: MIGRATions.

Summer Issue 2007 Editorial

2007-09-30T13:54:00.000-07:00

In this exigent era, spotlighting WORLD MUSIC has been determined appropriate as a reminder that global creative expressions have not succumbed to the apathy that abounds.

Cultural Literacy demands appreciation of diverse expressions that resist being muted in the face of an ongoing assault on fundamental values of civility.

Guest Editor for this issue is the renowned ethnomusicologist Dr Mark Lockett offering valid pronouncements with expertise of immense value in these times.

dialogue is especially honoured with interviews of veteran writer Ishmael Reed responding about his literary journey plus Minister Paul Scott on his current efforts to resurrect the positive dynamic of a Conscientious Hip-Hop genre.

Readers will be surely amazed and enthralled by the unique selection of tracks on our complimentary CD: CONVERSATions”. A bonus supplement which accompanies this release contains further info about featured musicians/artistes, album reviews plus a interview with percussion ensemble: MAWASI by our Caribbean correspondent Brian Mitchell.

dialogue graciously acknowledges their unselfish creative contributions and readers are therefore encouraged to support featured musicians/artistes by purchasing their albums where obtainable. This exciting compilation of WORLD MUSIC is available only to readers by email request.

Our Summer edition examines the farce that is “Global Warming” featuring an opportune consultation with historical climatologist Dr. Timothy Ball, a definite authority on this contentious subject. dialogue is appreciative for his co-operation.

Indisputable dangers posed by Mobile [Cellular] Phones/Masts and WIFI technology are exposed herein as designated responsible agencies, corporate bodies and governing powers still refuse [for whatever reason$/£] to inform or protect the vulnerable public at large. Meanwhile severe damage is being done to the ecological balance of our planet by EMFs (electronic-magnetic fields).

The ongoing manic behaviour of a privileged minority to ambivalently consume resources of Mother Earth despite the misery of a majority is effectively annihilated by Abysinnia Yohannes in VIEWPOINT on the gory trade of African Diamonds: “Patterns of Inequality”. She also reports on the plague of Bleaching Creams as well as her recent sojourn in Malawi.

While Omosun Sylvester updates us on the acute dilemma in the Niger Delta and share information about his initiative for peace in Nigeria.

New voices in this edition include: Lesley-Ann Brown celebrating the renowned literary exemplar Amiri Baraka (Leroi Jones) and her paternal Ancestor: the Musician Darlington Brown; Veteran Journalist Activist Elder Donald Hinds shares history of the pioneering West Indian Gazette founded by the revolutionary Ancestor Claudia Jones. While Marcine Quenzer, Enocia Joseph, Delia McKenzie, Omosun Sylvester and Sahera Parveen share their thought-provoking prose.

Our resident columnists: Lennox Raphael continues his intuitive series of interviews with LeRoy Clarke and Pearl Entiou Springer both undisputed creative giants of the Caribbean plus Lars Kraemmer of ART MONEY; while Greek poet-teacher Efi Antoniou adds another stimulating installment of her series “Other tongues”.

Ongoing commemorations for the Bi-Centenary Anniversary of the so-called Abolition of Chattel Slavery are again analysed. Distinguished historian Dr. Hakim Adi clarifies the wider historical context of this legislation. May the ghoulish misleading notion that “unrepentant perpetrators liberated our Ancestors” be decimated.

The establishment of a Heritage Centre on the banks of Thames River in Deptford, London by Black History Group is a step in the right direction. dialogue looks forward to a strengthening of ties with this institution. We anticipate resounding success for its mission as a worthwhile legacy to bequeath succeeding generations.

Alongside our regular features of poetry, commentaries, news, and photography, ConversArt exhibits the artistic agility of Marcine Quenzer, Naa Ahinee Mensah, Mark Carroll, Patrick Githinji; amazing photography by Brian Mitchell, Richard Nagler and Julianna Varnai. This issue’s cover showcases the incredible sculpture of George Fowokan Kelly.

dialogue grows from strength to strength… with devoted readership growing. Our recent triumphant Launch & commemorative Lecture-Dinner in London was an inspiration. It was a joyful experience to put faces to the names on our subscription list. We are eternally indebted to all contributors, well wishers and readers past and present.

The work to maintain channels of communications remains vital: So do pass the Word on. dialogue wishes you intuitive reading and listening for inspirational interpretations of this offering.

May the ancestors be pleased.

The Editor 2007-05-30

▲

Winter Issue 2008 being prepared

2007-09-23T01:38:00.001-07:00

wall of black achievers

Contributions (poetry/Photography/essays/articles/artwork, etc) are being acccepted for the Winter/Spring 2008 Edition of Dialogue journal for cultural literacy. The theme of this edition will be MIGRATIONS

Among the planned features will be : Dr. Eric Doumerc on Dub poet Moquapi Selassie, A review for a visit by Ethnomusicologist Dr Mark Lockett of the International Slavery Museum see Wall of Black Achievers above. A report on ANSON Day 2007 alongside a worthy tribute to Trinidadian Poet, Lecturer , Publisher & Literary pioneer Anson Gonzalez, interviews with Poet Laureate AMIRI BARAKA and MUTABARUKA..plus all regular features and of course the new supplementary CD

submissions

Editor Listed among World's Greatest Black Leaders

2007-09-01T10:22:00.001-07:00

The International Slavery Museum, UK is now open to the public. Based in the Merseyside Maritime Museum at Liverpool's Albert Dock, it explores both the historical and contemporary aspects of slavery. The museum addresses the many legacies of the slave trade and tells stories of bravery and rebellion amongst the enslaved people. These are stories which have been largely untold.

Among the many features is a wall dedicated to the Worlds Greatest Black Achievers. Our editor has been included on this list.

NYOIL track on the CONVERSATions CD

2007-07-12T15:29:00.000-07:00

You're a Queen!?!

Add to My Profile | More Videos

CONVERSATions

2007-07-08T09:55:00.000-07:00

Complimentary World Music CD Compilation
dialogue Summer Edition 2007
available to readers on request

why are poor countries not accessing SOLAR POWER

2007-07-07T16:58:00.000-07:00

As the debate rages, I wondered why goverments of so called poor or developing counties of the south aren't accessing SOLAR power as their basic energy source,,, ????

Perhaps this would shake up the MARKETs for OIL!!!

I am really disturbed by the argument that some personalities with [not so hidden agendas ] are commenting with some as if scientific authority (from where ???) on CLIMATE CHANGE & GLOBAL WARMING....

You are invited/encouraged to read the latest issue of Dialogue..I had the honour of interviewing Dr Tim Ball- Canadian based historical climatologist who had quite a bit to say on this GLOBAL WARMING episode!

After all climate change been happening for CENTURIES before my birth...

NYOIL launches his album

2007-07-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

NYOIL is one of the many artistes to contribute a track to the CONVERSATions Album compilation.
" YOUR'E QUEEN" is that track he contributed. His live launch is reproduced here.
Congratulations to this original VOICE!

Artist Ahinee Mensah in latest dialogue edition feature in UK newspapers

2007-07-02T03:54:00.000-07:00

ART HELP FOR CHILDREN OF WEST AFRICA
11:00 - 29 June 2007

St Ann's artist Ahinee Mensah came to England from Ghana at the age of 12. Now she has pledged to raise money for some of the poorest youngsters in her African homeland through an exhibition.

LYNETTE PINCHESS reports:

Ahinee Mensah depicts herself with a chicken leg in one of her paintings.Standing strong and defiant, it's a statement against the school bullies who used it as a cruel nickname because her left leg is much thinner than the right."

I believe that out of every negative experience, something positive can be gained or achieved," said the 30-year-old African, who came to London when she was 12 and then moved to Nottingham to study art at Nottingham Trent University."I have found ways of expressing myself through my work and I hope to encourage others."Don't take bullying, you are only a victim when you allow yourself to be."It is the same indomitable spirit that prompted Ahinee to set up a charity in memory of her father Otto Tse Ataa Mensah, who died in Ghana aged 56 in August 2005.

Her family believe he was misdiagnosed after being treated for tuberculosis when he had pneumonia. Ahinee said: "I got the biggest shock of my life and that's one of the reasons I decided to register the charity and actually do something."My father's death was a wake-up call. I never saw that coming. While I have the opportunity and the breath of life I should make the most of it."This is my chance, my father's was cut short."

Ahinee will be raising money, helped by friends, at an exhibition during the Nottingham Caribbean Carnival.Striking oil and acrylic paintings depicting her life story - from family portraits in Ghana to a tribute to her father - can be seen on The Forest recreation ground, in the New Art Exchange marquee, from July 7 to 15 from 10am to 7pm.Some of her paintings explore Africa's rich heritage, from slavery to the present day.She hopes sales, commissions and workshops including African adinkra stamp-making and kente cloth design on card will boost her fund-raising.Ahinee, a mixed-media fine artist, enjoyed digging in the clay, creating charcoal drawings and making pictures in the sand as a child in Ghana.

She never wanted to become a professional artist.Instead, after spending a lot of time in hospital as a child because of problems with her leg, she wanted to do humanitarian work and her ambition was to help build a well-equipped hospital in Ghana.Had he not died, her father would have become the chief of Aplaku village in Ghana.He worked for the medical statistical unit at the Korle Bu teaching hospital for more than 20 years. After he left he joined a project administrating funds for the education of local children.

So now, through the Tse Ataa Mensah Foundation, Ahinee and her family, who still live in Ghana, have pledged to improve literacy for younger children by providing them with books at an early age and give them better employment opportunities.The target communities are Chorkor and Korle-Gonnos in Accra.Ahinee said: "Chorkor is one of the poorest areas in Accra. I grew up next to this area."There are many children walking about because their families are too poor to afford money towards their education. Most of the adults in this community are illiterate."As well as books, the money would also pay for school fees and uniforms for children and teenagers. Her ultimate dream is to raise enough cash to build a teaching hospital or a school.

Ahinee said: "We believe strongly in education and self development. Give the children a good education in life and they will help the future development of their nation."

This means not relying on aid constantly and not leaving the country and becoming an illegal immigrant in the developed world. Ghana is a developing country and so finds it difficult to hold on to its skilled minority."We want to make sure every child has the chance to develop and realise their potential, this can only benefit our community."

Ahinee's fund-raising is being supported by Accra Central Market in Hyson Green and an art shop in Byard Lane, Nottingham, which will sell some of her cards and paintings.

For more information and examples of Ahinee's work visit www.ahineemensah.co.uk or contact her on +44 (0) 7969 024544.

now available for order

2007-06-20T01:34:00.001-07:00

plus complimentary CD with bonus supplement

CONVERSATions
World Music Compilation
17 Tracks
featuring
A Cappella-Reggae-Kaiso-Jazz- Asian classic-Alternative
-Cantomble-Hip Hop- Orisha- Samba- Spokenword
House Music- Gospel-Drumology+ more

dialogue summer 2007 edition available next week

2007-06-09T01:14:00.000-07:00

dialogue

a journal for cultural literacy
No. 2 / Vol. 3- SUMMER/WINTER 2007
CONVERSATIONS- WORLD MUSIC EDITION
ISSN: 1024-0209

EDITOR-PUBLISHER
Roi Ankhkara Kwabena

GUEST EDITOR
Dr Mark Lockett
(Ethnomusicologist)

CONTRIBUTORS:

Ishmael Reed, Dr.Ulrich Warnke , Lennox Raphael, Dr. Hakim Adi, Min.
Paul Scott, BIAM, Prof. Timothy Ball, Tichaona Chinyelu, Sharon Bowie,
Marcine Quenzer , Donald Hinds, Lesley-Ann Brown, Shani Burke, Brian
Mitchell, Entiou Springer, George Fowokan Kelly, Mark Carroll, Felene
Cayetano, Naa Ahinee Mensah, Rashana Shirley, Enocia Joseph, Lars
Kræmmer , Patrick Githinji, Kokumo Noxid, LeRoy Clarke, Abysinnia
Yohannes, Delia McKenzie, Efi Antoniou, Sahera Parveen, Omosun
Sylvester, Ita Gordon & Marie Conte

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Brain Mitchell, Julianna Varnai, Izzy Mohammed, Lesley-Ann Brown,
Fowokan Kelly, Richard Nagler, Risasi Dais & RK

Orders

CONVERSATions compilation Cd

2007-05-31T03:41:00.000-07:00

CONVERSATions

COMPLIMENTARY WORLD COMPILATION CD + BONUS Supplement

A cappella, Reggae, Alternative, Orisha Devotional , Hip Hop, House Music,

Classic Asian, Kaiso, Gamelan, Drum & Base,

Tabla, Samba, Candomble, Soul, Spokenword, Ambient,

CD Cover Design: “Innocence” -© Mark Carroll

Available free on email request to readers of

dialogue

A Journal for Cultural Literacy

Summer/Winter Edition 2007

Further Information

Exclusives planned for our SUMMER edition

2007-05-15T23:12:00.000-07:00

dialogue

a journal for cultural literacy

No. 2/ Vol. 3-Summer-Autumn 2007

CONVERSATions: WORLD MUSIC ISSUE

will be packed with exclusives and promises to be possibly the most comprehensive. It will also feature a supplement to accompany an on offer complimentary compilation WORLD MUSIC CD “CONVERSAtions”.

exclusives at a glance

Minister Paul Scott speaks with dialogue

on his mission for HIP HOP redemption.

Renown literary giant Ishmael Reed
in a candid interview with our Editor

Dr Timothy Ball shares his
controversial opinion on
Global warming/Climate Change

An unbias report on the dangers posed
by EMFs (electromagnetic fields)

Historian Dr Hakim Adi discusses

the role of London in Chattel slavery & Abolition.

Donald hinds discloses the true history
of Ancestor Claudia Jones & the UK's
first black newspaper-West Indian Gazette.

plus much more

including poetry, essays,

commentaries, prose, photography & art.

CONVERSATions-compilation CD

2007-04-22T03:50:00.001-07:00

dialogue

“CONVERSAtions” Compilation CD

Summer 2007 WORLD MUSIC Issue

dialogue a journal for cultural literacy is working on organizing our first compilation CD that will be primarily focused on world music. Titled “CONVERSAtions” this compilation will feature all genres of music by at least fifteen [15] artistes/musicians/groups.

The cost of producing the CDs will be borne by dialogue and the finished CDs will be distributed free of charge in response to email requests to the Publisher from readers of the Summer Issue of dialogue in August 2007. These finished CDs will reach a wide audience or readers across the planet.

dialogue will take care of designing all artwork, mastering of the compilation, printing of the inserts, and pressing of the discs, This CD compilation will be limited to no more than five hundred copies and will only be distributed until December 2007. Additional information will be published on each artiste/musician/ band within the Summer Issue of the journal-including band name, promotional photography, song title, band website, release information, and copyright info.

If you the musician/artist or band has a recording contract of any kind, please make sure that your participation in this compilation is permitted by your contract. All Musicians/artistes or Bands featured on the compilation will retain all rights to their music. dialogue will not have bands sign contracts in order to be a part of the compilation. If any band would be interested in entering into a written agreement, we are willing to sign one. No royalties of any kind will be paid for featuring your music. By being a part of this compilation, you are issuing dialogue permission to feature your music on one pressing of this collection equal to about 500 CDs (+/- 10% overrun). If any additional pressings are desired, all the artistes/musicians or bands involved must approve it.

This release will be only be distributed in response to email requests from readers of dialogue. Musicians/artistes or Bands are encouraged to submit their best available song and/or to contribute previously unreleased material making the compilation more appealing to your fans. We recommend that which ever song you choose to submit not be downloadable for free from your various websites, in order to encourage fans to purchase the CD. In order to fit at least 15 bands/musicians/artistes on the disc, the time limit for each song is 5 minutes.

If you or band are interested in being considered for the compilation, please send mp3 submissions to rakabooks@gmail.com Mp3's must be at least five[5] minutes long or less When submitting your mp3 please be sure to indicate your band name, the song title, promotional image [jpeg format B&W or colour acceptable] website, release information, copyright info, release info, your name, shipping address, and sponsoring business name and website (if applicable). Once your song is accepted for the compilation, you will be notified and entitled to a complimentary copy of the journal and CD.

RAKA BOOKS & dialogue looks forward to hearing from you.

Submissions deadline is 31st May 2007

Roi Ankhkara Kwabena

Editor Publisher

RAKA BOOKS

RAKA PUBLICATIONS

http://nefertamu.tripod.com/books.html
http://dialogue4culture.blogspot.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cultural_literacy/

Editor: Roi Kwabena

Launch of DIALOGUE Journal-UK

2007-04-13T01:46:00.000-07:00

editor addressing the audience

Dining guests

with Andonny Castillo Garifuna anthropologist

Dialogue launch Dinner

2007-02-20T06:37:00.000-08:00

CARIBARAMA Restaurant
celebrating the Bi-Centenary Anniversary
of Afrikans who abolished Chattel Slavery

CARIBBEAN DINNER & LECTURE
with Multi-Media exhibition & Music

Speaker: Dr Roi Ankhkara Kwabena
Caribbean born Cultural Anthropologist

Saturday 24th March 2007
from 7.30 p.m.

Caribarama
@CENTERPRISE
136-138 Kingslands High Street
Dalston, London E8 2NS

Authentic African Caribbean Dinner
Vegetarian, Fish & Jerk Chicken options

Advance tickets: £15.00
At The Door: £20.00

further Info: 0207 254 9632

Hardback edition now available

2007-02-11T12:55:00.000-08:00

Edition: No.1 / Vol. 3
140 pages, 8.25" x 10.75",
casewrap-hardcover binding,
80# white interior paper, full-color interior ink ,
100# white exterior paper, full-color exterior ink

Order your copy today!

read a review here

Editorial dialogue-2007 Edition-

2007-01-05T01:01:00.000-08:00

Efforts of our predecessors must never be underestimated. dialogue is of the sincerest opinion that the struggles of our ancestors can never be trivialised.

Provocative pronouncements recently suggesting modern day human trafficking is worst than Chattel Slavery is but a confirmation of culpability. In fact such insensitive conjecture, (without an apology for this transgression) further compounds complicity for a flagrant abuse of human rights. It is also a direct assault/insult on the integrity of surviving generations across the Afrikan Diaspora.

The world, as we know it today is still reeling from the effects of that human calamity. While many remain unaware that painstaking research- has revealed this so called ”Gentleman’s Trade” was not abolished because perpetrators felt remorse for their victims (of whatever hue or origin) but conveniently abandoned some conduits of this heinous system because of economic expediency.

As indicated in our previous issue, this auspicious anniversary offers all an opportunity to debate, RE-visit and RE-examine the factors that contributed to this sad saga that haunts the present. It is necessary to redress the balance acknowledging the diverse struggles against this grave injustice.

Abolition as legislated (two hundred years ago) resonates hollow as the fate of those who were rescued by British ships were immediately conscripted into the military service (First West India Regiment) to serve in colonial conflicts during the period. The American War of Independence, Boer, Ashanti and Zulu wars are clear examples of this maltreatment. Descendants across the globe still bear the traumatic burdens and anguish of this tragedy.

Need it be reiterated, that the Planters and Slave proprietors in the British Colonies were compensated with Twenty Million pounds while the Afrikan slaves got zilch and were retained in servitude for decades under an ill-conceived Apprenticeship scheme.

dialogue does not condone the insensitive celebration of hailed individuals as Abolitionists when they were oppressors of their own country men/women by way of unjust class partitions, servitude, social deprivation and economic apartheid.

Our Winter/Spring edition is consciously dedicated to our predecessors who relentlessly resisted enslavement via rebellions on the slaver vessels to the first factories (Gold Mines, Cotton, Sugar, Tobacco & Cocoa plantations).

We give formal thanks with libations for the prescience and pains of Ancestors Jacques Dessalines, Harriet Tubman, Henri Christophe, Paul Bogle, Toussaint L’Ouverture, Leonard Parkinson, Julien Fedon, Nat Turner, Cudjoe, Simon Bolivar, Cinquez, Bussa, Kofi, Sam Sharp, Nanny of the Maroons, Chatouer, Zumbi dos Palmares, Daaga and Carlota among many other nameless Herus and Ausets (Horus & Isis).

Featured herein are among the finest examples of thought, creativity and culture to be found across the Diaspora. We are afforded a rare insight into the creative life’s work of Sculptor George Fowokan Kelly.

The hardworking and ambitious organisation: “Parents and Children Together” is featured alongside the commendable celebration of BHM 2006 by SEWREC in Wales.

Lennox Raphael continues to intrigue us with his literary agility sharing the first in a series of insightful interviews with Playwright Mustapha Matura and a moving prologue to the work and personage of Artist/poet LeRoy Clarke.

The dynamics of this touted concept of Abolition as influenced by the movers and shakers of the Industrial Revolution via the Lunar Society is carefully explicated by Historian Malcolm Dick.

Abysinnia Yohannes dissects the phenomena of the “Kleptocrats” who wish to destroy Afrika. Criminologist Clarence Cole challenges readers with an insightful analysis of Criminality.

Our regular ConversArt, features the works of Stewart Brown, Siobhan Lennon, Julianna Varnai and Patrick Githinji. The celebrated Curator Raphael Chikukwa fresh from his sojourn of documenting invaluable service of Afrikan War Veterans shares his views on Museums.

As usual our poetry is diverse with contributions from Nanfuka Sekitto, Mishu Baura, Sahera Parveen, Rabiyah Latif, Modibo Nsami, Efi Antoniou, Omosan Urdeen, Russell Geoff and Tichaona Chinyelu. There is also a tribute to the giant Caribbean poet: ancestor Martin Carter.

Mark Rockeymoore and Russell Geoff provide non-fictional and fictional accounts of childhood memories plus subliminal advertising respectfully. While the dilemma of being indigenous to the Caribbean is shared by “the laughing Gull”: Guanaguanare.

dialogue does not condone RACISM, SEGREGATION, EXCLUSION, CENSORSHIP & RELATED INTOLLERANCE. Cultural Literacy remains the paradigm and we invite readers to commemorate the efforts of those who abolished Chattel SLAVERY!

May the ancestors be pleased.

The Editor
▲

Dialogue 2007 issue now available

2007-01-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

A journal for cultural literacy
no. 1/ vol. 3-Winter 2006 / SPRING 2007
ISSN: 1024-0209

EDITOR- PUBLISHER:
Roi Ankhkara Kwabena

CONTRIBUTORS:
Nanfuka Sekitto, Mark Rockeymoore, Fowokan Kelly, Russell Goffe, Rabiyah Latif, Maximilian Forte, Lennox Raphael, Tichaoma Chinyelu, LeRoy Clarke, Clarence Cole, Modibo Nsami, Ososan Urdeen, Patrick Githinji, Siobhan Lennon, Guanaguanare, Malcolm Dick, Mishu Barua, Raphael Chikukwa, Abysinnia Yohannes, Mustapha Matura, Stewart Brown, Efi Antoniou, Sahera Parveen, South East Wales Race Equality Council & PACT.

PHOTOGRAPHY:
Siobhan Lennon, Julianna Varnai, Fowokan Kelly, Raphael Chikukwa & Roi Kwabena

new issue due soon

2006-12-20T14:14:00.000-08:00

" The lost queen of PERNAMBUCO"

This is a sculpture by FOWOKAN George Kelly UK based sculptor/photographer

We are commemorating the struggles of slaves who abolished slavery in this our Winter 2006/Spring 2007 Issue.

ENQUIRIES

dialogue columnist Raphael Chikukwa on BBC

2006-09-18T01:52:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Art Curator and Dialogue columnist Raphael Chikukwa for his ongoing efforts to raise the profile of Afrika's veteran contribution to the World Wars!

This gallant work was recently featured on the BBC.

Readers may remember his exciting article on Zimbawean Art in the December 2006 issue of dialogue...the author is currently in London with his new exhibition on Afrikan War Veterans at the Imperial War Museum.

Exclusive Interview with Founder of Africa Speaks

2006-09-09T02:56:00.000-07:00

Interview with the Founder of AFRICA SPEAKS

Published in the Summer Issue of

DIALOGUE Journal for Cultural Literacy

An exclusive interview with

Munyaradzi, Didymus Muzenda
FOUNDER

RK: Who is Munyaradzi Muzenda?

MM: Infact, I am Munyaradzi, Didymus Muzenda (Zulu) Born of Zambian Father and Zimbabwean Mother. Came to Zimbabwe in 1976 when my parents separated, and I was 3 years old. Tried to reclaim my right to belong, but to no avail. The conditions were not good for me. I was supposed to bribe some people, as if I was not born in Zambia as if my father was not Zambian. That’s life; I am not the only person who has been denied their right to belong. The story is long. Anywhere, I am born organizer, very proud African, self-inspired dedicated and committed cadre to appraise the indigenous people’s way of living.
Touched by the plight of the young people (Youth) formed Tact Youth Association in 1998. Further to that I am a member of World Youth Leaders, member of Our Human Future, member of the next generation (CLUB 29) under Commonwealth Partnership. Former Co-chairman of National Economic Consultative Forum Youth Task Force, Chairman / Founder of Tact.

RK: What inspired you to initiate or be involved with Africa Speaks?

MM: Vittachi International Youth Conference inspired me. It true that “Wisdom comes with travelling” I got Inspired when I was selected to represent Zimbabwe in Jakarta, Indonesia in June 2001 at the Varindra T. Vittachi International Youth Conference, Sponsored by the Guerrand Hermes Foundation (UK) while in Indonesia I realized that the present perception of Africa out there was/ is not a true reflection of its reality. For example of the 324 international delegates, the majority thought, “ Africa is a thick forest where people and animals live together”.

I asked someone and this is what he said: “I only know two countries in Africa, namely, Somalia and South Africa ” while the other lady surprised me by saying Victoria Falls is in South Africa . It is therefore, these negative perceptions, misinformation that promote me to start “Afrika Speaks, Marketing Africa Globally. Also, am still studying Marketing (C.I.M) and Afrika Speaks is sort of my case study as I am doing my Postgraduate. In short, Afrika Speaks is born to tell the true Africa’s story trough the abundant young people’s talents among through the abundant young people’s talents among them Poetry, Painting, Public Speaking, Singing and Dancing, arts and Craft, Drama, Photography, Story telling, Films etc.

RK: How long has this organization been in existence?

MM:4 Years now, and on 28th October, 2006 , Afrika speaks will be celebrating its 5th Anniversary by holding Afrika Speaks International Poetry Festival 06.

RK: Who are the founders?

MM:I don’t if founding means the visionary. If so, Yes. I am the founder, but there are people whom I felt also played a very important role, people whom I can say they were like a headlamp of a car, that gives direction and clarity to the driver. Hugh Lynn from Whakapuare. New Zealand Scherto Lee (GHFP) UK while in Indonesia , we shared views, and thoughts and they continued to give moral and financial support when I came back. Without them, I was not going to be where I am today. Also lest I shall forget the contributions of my two close friends, Alfred Chirwa (Former Youth Ambassador). Now the World Vision marketing Officer ( Zambia ) Donald Charumbira, Secretary General of World Assembly of Youth.
The 52 young people who gathered at Great Zimbabwe, Masvingo in 2001 and 48 who met in Kariba 2003 made some excellent contributions.

RK: Is Afrika speaks guided by Pan African or UJAAMA?
MM: Not wholly, though we subscribe to a number of concepts, ideologies, beliefs among others of the two fronts, Pan African & UJAAMA. As Afrika Speaks, the true story of Africa must be told. Economics resources, which are factors of production must be owned and controlled by the son of the soil, that restoring dignity of the colonized people. If development is to come, let it be Smart partnership, a win-win situation.

The slight difference of Afrika Speaks is, it is advocating for Young People not to rule Africa but to own and control the factors of production and also to fight some colonial ways of doing things and the black imperialists who have inherited the shoes and jackets of some white imperialists. Besides marketing Africa globally, its time for the Young people in Africa and Diaspora to get united and pioneer the Economic freedom & revolution of Africa . Days of Political revolution are over.

RK: How has African Youth benefited from Africa Speaks efforts over the years?

MM: Let me start with Zimbabwe and then Africa . Firstly, mental decolonization workshops were held across Zimbabwe after were realized that most of the young people are like bottles filled with dirty water and what is needed, is to empty the bottles and refill them with clean water.
- Changing of mind set, instilling of black pride, black capability, black success through radio, television and newspaper.
Talents shows, training and travel
The right to associate, dialogue and deliberate issues of concern, since Afrika speaks is a channel through which the true face and voice of the African Continent can be seen heard.
After getting land to put Afrika Speaks Headquarters the African Youths benefits will be infinity and will include permanent jobs, training, skills development light to develop and to be developed, the light to medication, The right to associate and celebrate their cultural.

RK: Does Afrika Speaks efforts include training and cultural exchange?

MM: Yes, though the program is broad, we search for Africa stars across the board, nurture and develop the potential to reach its full potential, expose the talent by giving it a chance to speak, organize workshops, conference talent shows, Arts and culture festivals, travel arrangement, cultural tourism among others.

RK: What role does history and science play in your efforts as a body?

MM: History is about our yesterday, its about reminding and teaching us of who we are, our morals, values culture and traditions, while Science makes it easier for generations to relate. If we don’t capture history and at the same time not show it to the future humanity will be doomed. Afrika Speaks is the combination of the two, History and Science. As a sign of attaching value to history, we are running a project called my Heroes Project, where by Africans are requested to identify individuals whom they regard as their Heroes.

Why they are their Heroes i.e. at village level, provincial level, country level and continental level. Also we intend to embark on a research on the late Africans, non Africans greats, and the living who helped in the building of Africa , their contribution, impact they left. The information will be put in Afrika Speaks Library & Museum. Therefore History + Science are education tools for Africa .

RK: Where are your Headquarters and who are the main associates, affiliates and contributors?

MM: The Headquarters are in Marondera, provincial capital of Mashonaland East province. Labor farm, Murehwa Road Our associates are all Pan Africans, Individuals, Schools, Organization groups, Companies who subscribe to our aims & objectives.

The main contributors to Afrika Speaks has been Guerand Hermes Foundation for Peace, Whakapuare, Tact Youth Association, Dysan Pvt, DcAfrica, World Assembly of Youth, Municipality of Marondera , Ministry of Youth, Ministry of Science & Technology Development. Individual Contributors are Alfred Chirwa, Noah Mataruse, Donald Charumbira, Idah Muemah and Okuku ( Kenya ) Leonardo Mandidewa, Jevision Gwariwa, Dr. W, T Mbizvo- Perm Sec Ministry of Higher Education, hon Minister of Science and Technology – DR.Olivia.N Muchena who is also the Patron of Tact Youth Association.

RK: What Support have you received in any form local, region, Government or International?

MM: Moral Support, the United Nations Information Centre in Harare offered Boardroom for meetings.
Land from Municipality of Marondera .
Endorsement from World Assembly of Youth
Financial Assistance from Hugh Lynn, Guerrand Hermes Foundation For Peace. DC Africa Dysan Pvt, Migdale Holdings and Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Development.

RK: Has Africa Union or any UN Body Supported Your Vital Work?

MM: NO, I think its not yet vital to them as much as you perceive it vital. When time comes, they will support the project.

RK: What is your relationship to Africans in the Diaspora?

MM: Thank you so much for especially for this question, honestly speaking, I have not yet established some strong relationships especially in the USA , Frame , UK and the Caribbean . All the same, we need
(i) Some guaranteed markets for our Afrika Speaks Info crafts in the various countries.
(ii) Networking and linking Afrika Speaks with other likeminded organization from different sectors i.e. in areas of Cultural exchange programmes.
(iii) Someone to organize some Afrika Speaks Music Festivals / Exhibitions /workshops /Conferences and Workshops.
(iv) Having Afrika Speaks TV and radio programmes to deal with prejudices, enlighten people’s ignorance; speak the positive side of Africa in Diaspora.
(v) Marketing/ promoting the following Projects and Competitions.
· Afrika Speaks International Poetry Festival Oct 06.
· Sing for Afrika project – Dec 06
· Friendship through Art mainly to promote peace, Unity, Understanding and development Sept, 06.
· Afrika Speaks Film (2007-2009).
· Miss Afrika Speaks April 2007.
· My Heroes & Heritage project Aug-06

(vi) Having Afrika Speaks – USA , France , UK , Caribbean etc.
(vii) Having volunteers in the diasporas to bring in their expertise to redesign Afrika Speaks i.e. Website, Magazine

RK: What are Afrika Speaks Plans for the future?

MM: The plans are so many, but as people always say, a journey of 1000km starts with one step. To start with, we are preparing Afrika Speaks International Poetry festivals in October, 2006, 25 – 29 to mark and celebrate Afrika Speaks’ 5th Anniversary. Africans in the Diaspora poets are invited to participate.

v Fundraising and resource mobilization
v Search for Africa stars across the continent.
v Creating awareness of Afrika Speaks worldwide.
v Organizing Afrika Speaks Architects, Surveyors, Town planners, Engineers conference, to enable designers to share views and plan the actual kind of construction we envision.
v A.S Architectural Design competition.
v Miss Afrika Speaks Diaspora Dec, 06, Miss Afrika Speaks – Africa April 2007
v Construction of 15 Gazebos and chalets
v Setting up of Afrika Speaks Music, dance and Film Company
v Setting up of Afrika Speaks School of Arts, Culture & Tourism
v Having Africa Arts Festivals 07 and World Arts festival 2008 & 2010

RK: What has been the most significant achievement since the launch of Afrika Speaks?

MM:

v Bringing the regional African Youth together twice during the strategic planning workshop in Kariba 2002 and the 2nd Afrika Speaks conference in Marondera 2003
v Holding mental decolonization workshops. Lastly, the Historic achievement was getting the land for this project, Africa Speaks the home for all Africans. This has also taken the project to another level that needs practical individuals and minds.

By getting the land, it also transformed and made Afrika Speaks to be now a reality. A reality that needs Social & Economic partnership for development through Co-operation, Technological transfer, joint venture, talent exchange, Technological Aid, Mutual, help and sponsorship. Remember World Cup 2010 will be coming to Africa .

RK: Would you care to share some of the highs and lows with our readers?

MM: Why not, let me start with the lows. The environment we are operating is not conclusive to the development of creative minds. It’s not easy to achieve results in Africa due to lack of support both technical and financial, worse still when you are a young person. To me, all unrealistic things turned realistic it has been normal and still normal to work without the minimum basic requirements but still achieve the best results. I have been abused, swindled, conned property confiscated but that didn’t take away the energy and drive out of me. “In confrontation of a river and a mountain, the river always wins the battle, not because of power, but because of perseverance”. The prize for greatness must be paid in advance and in full.

I was also denied a visa to attend the Vittachi conference in USA in 2004 on the grounds and assumptions that I was the son of the late Vice president’s His Excellency. CDE Simon V. Muzenda. Sanctions also crippled into my way. Opportunities were created for me, in Europe to give lectures and meet friends of Afrika Speaks & various stakeholders, but couldn’t travel. What surprises me is we speak of freedom of movement, human rights, justice, peace, right to associate etc, that we always violate. Lets learn to support any creative, innovative and unique idea and projects irregardless of the age, sex, origin, race or nationality.

On the high side, nothing is impossible, to all your readers I say “Death is not the greatest loss in life, the greatest loss in life is what dies within us while we live.” My inspiration comes from the bible, Hebrews 10:35-37.

I felt honored to represent Zimbabwe and Africa especially in Asia . I have managed to bring a number of Friends of Africa to Africa to enable them to see, feel and touch Africa . Lastly, moving away from the luxury of the city of Harare to the farm where I am not connected to the world, no clean water no electricity, no internet.
My policy is, you can be with me or against me, but which way you go, you will make me strong.

RK: What difficulties have you encountered as a body at the expense of our contributing commitment?

MM: Racism, Discrimination, divide and rules. Lack of support from the key stakeholders, in providing the basic requirements, living salaries for the staff, computers, printers, laptops, vehicles for mobility among other things.

RK: How may our readers support or get involved with Afrika Speaks?

MM: They can support in any way possible, ways that will enable the body to market and promote Afrika globally, ways that will enable to develop the land. Your members can support by being members of Afrika Speaks, and form Afrika Speaks clubs e.g Afrika Speaks – France, Afrika Speaks – USA, UK, Caribbean.
Organizing exhibitions, conferences and fundraising musical shows.
Designing. Afrika Speaks Website, donating a server, and sourcing some Computers.
Register as Afrika Speaks Technical Volunteers and help to
a) Print Afrika Speaks promotional materials, T/Shirts, Caps, Trousers, Posters with Africa Speaks Logo.
b) Design and put information together for Afrika Speaks magazines and newspaper. Look for companies in France , USA , UK , Caribbean to advertise in the magazine
· Marketing promoting and mobilizing resources Afrika Speaks International Poetry Festival October 06 (The 4Ps International Festivals 06 i.e. Poetry Painting, Photography and Public Speaking)
· Forming Afrika Speaks Diaspora Club that will then organize Miss Afrika Speaks Diaspora 2006 & Musical Concert for the Africa ’s greatest musicians.
· Initiate some cultural Tourism Exchange programs with various institutions. Have at least 10 – 15 delegation coming to Africa every month to explore opportunities and experience Africa .
· Research for orders, get some contracts to supply and sell our Agricultural products, Arts and Crafts from Africa .
· Networking Afrika Speaks to various professional, Colleges Universities , NGOs and Donors in the Diaspora.
· Allow Architects, Diasporan surveyors, Planners, Engineers, to come down and help in the designing of the Center (Brain Gain). We intend to have a building with 53 storeys depicting the 53 nations in Africa .
· Contribute in the Afrika Speaks. Buy a brick campaign October 2006 – October 2007.

RK: Do you accept donations or purposely solicit financial assistance for your ventures?

MM: Yes, we accept financial and technical assistance for our ventures; but whoever is donating must specify the area/ venture which they are interested in Afrika Speaks has 8 key areas i.e. (i) Web Portal (ii) Festivals (iii) Library & Museums
(iv) Design & Publications (v) Youth Resort & Agriculture (vi) Growth and Development (vii) Youth Bank (viii) Football & Business.

The other areas that need resources are: Administration, Education and Training, Travel and developing the centre.
Technically, we need ICT equipment, to set up Afrika Speaks Internet cafes across Africa with phase I starting with Southern Africa .

We also need 3 x Digital cameras PD 170 with external mic
- Editing suite, computer with editing card
- 80 Gig or more, 1 gig ram a DVD writer
Mobilizing resources for Afrika Speaks Youth Bank, which will be a technical Bank for Young people in Africa . Its purpose will be to provide machinery and equipment for African Young people e.g Agro processing machines, wood, leather, services machines, tractors, Brick molding, construction, in short any machine will help to improve the welfare of African Youth.

RK: Any other matter you wish to add?

MM: Business people, companies, Airlines, who want to increase their market share, get known in Africa , they can get involved in Afrika Speaks by supporting Afrika Speaks competitions and festivals by printing of T/Shirts, Caps with Afrika Speaks Logo. One voice to the world, Afrika Speaks. The world needs your voice.

Lastly as Afrika Speaks, we believe that our Africa and the world over, will be a better place to live in. if we develop communities in a way that natures human relationships, strengthens communities and creates bonds between people and the environment. Appraise the Indigenous people’s way of living and how they relate themselves to the world around there.

Thank you for affording me this Interview, You have started a small fire in the Diaspora. “Pieces of firewood are always, bound together” and there is great need for us all to be united “He who travels alone, die alone”

E-mail: didymunya@yahoo.com
Postal: Munyaradzi, Muzenda
House No. 16A Takawira Street
Or 8360- 110 Crescent
Yellow City
Glen – Views (8)
MARONDERA

HARARE , ZIMBABWE

Keeping channels of communication open

2006-08-27T13:52:00.000-07:00

WE ALL POSSESS THE TOOLS
TO ADDRESS PROBLEMS THAT SEEM TO BESET US

WE ARE IN CONTROL OF OUR LIVES...

WE ARE ALL BLESSED WITH CREATIVE THOUGHT

LET US BE

OPEN TO LEARNING
WITHOUT PREJUDICE

LET US PURSUE

CULTURAL LITERACY
AS OUR SURVIVAL

AS A SPECIES

DEPENDS ON IT

ALL THAT WE SEEK, SEEKS US

LET US ALL EMBRACE CHALLENGES

AS OPPORTUNITIES TO GROW

MAKE A HABIT TO LEARN

ANOTHER IDEA, CONCEPT,
ANOTHER VALUE

EACH DAY

BUT MOST OF ALL...

BE GRATEFUL

take time and open dialogue

so good reason may prevail

---

WInter 2005/Spring 2006 Issue Cover & Editorial

Editorial

The necessity of keeping all channels of communication open, without hindrance, remains the standard of conscientious people. Yet attendant promotion of “Cultural Literacy” is oft time challenged by unwarranted unscrupulous attacks on ideals of Tolerance and Unity.

dialogue exists so thinkers can explore and share their views in a spirit of understanding. No attempt has been made to curtail opinions that question the validity of biased notions of Development, Progress, and Justice or for that matter Civilisation.

Honesty and Impartiality are the measures by which knowledge is pursued, as our unselfish contributors painstakingly examine issues ranging from Economics, Politics, Culture, Literature, Spirituality, and the untold True Story [aka HISTORY].

RAKA Books is justified in continuing the mission of Cultural Upliftment and Socio-Cultural Rehabilitation exercises in joint co-operation with BEMBE Productions (est. 1977, Trinidad). Collective experiences over past heady unsecured years have borne much success to date worthy of celebration. Despite the recent challenges.

Our correspondents are working assiduously in many parts of the world, sincerely convinced of eventual victory over IGNORANCE and the scourge of RACISM that plagues our world today.

We are particularly pleased to include exciting archaeological news of recent discoveries of “TA-MERI-KA” predating Pre-Columbian Americas. As the story unfolds, readers will understand what necessitated its inclusion. An excerpt of “About the Caribbean” (now in its seventh edition) provides the invaluable list of original names of the region as a complement.

Featured poets are Mishu Barua, and Roy McFarlane both recently published by RAKA.

Congratulations are due to the IAAR on their Third Anniversary and “Writers Without Borders” for their consistent efforts to build bridges with poetry over the years.

Appreciation to all who have supported our collective in Europe, Afrika, Australia, New Zealand, the Caribbean, Canada, USA and Latin America.

dialogue is indebted to our kind, patrons and well wishers. We include among these our close friends who shared their facilities over time as well.

Walk well…. UPWRITE

Spring/Summer 2006 issue Cover & Editorial

Editorial

Yet another endeavour to redress the balance. dialogue never presumed, to possess the solutions to all the problems that beset our “global village”, however we won’t be part of the growing apathy. Responses to our previous issues have convinced us to continue pursuing cultural literacy.

Regrettably, apocalyptic conflict, violent crime, social cataclysm and censorship are being touted as solutions to humanity’s dilemma. Even as we go to print, many errors of judgement by predecessors are being repeated. Nevertheless, there remains a core of creatively inclined workers who still dare to independently think and trust in the need for continued dialogue, regardless of the weather forecast.

Communication is based on engagement as we continue with inimitable themes, focusing on efforts by Youth in Africa. Readers are introduced to AFRICA SPEAKS, an emotive short story from Congolese writer, Dicho Ilunga, and salient paintings by Gintinji from Nyeri.

A new voice from urban America: the personage of NURI EL provides us with more than an insight. While curious alternative perspectives on religion, fashion and “politricks” are offered by the daring DJ ADAMISSIMO, our own roving underground correspondent.

dialogue is privileged with a guest editorial and poetry from Italian publisher/ writer Renèe Ballerini-Sigel. Witty as per usual, Lennox Raphael twice this time jogs our memory, as we welcome back since 1994, Trinidadian Editor (Profile 96), Social activist: Esuseeke Ololade with a new series on Ancient Grace.

Our Poetry feature is multilingual from Writers Without Borders. This collective have grown from strength to strength and co-founder Cathy Perry keeps us up to date. Greek poet/writer Efi Antoniou in her native tongue and English makes some astonishing comparisons between the work of Manolis Anagnostakis and new Caribbean poetry.

Persistent efforts in Africa and across the Diaspora for Peace, Transparency, Development and Unity by PANAFSTRAG are featured in a complementary supplement. While Ras Jahaziel debates the sacred rights of Africans abroad. Two ancestors associated with dialogue are also celebrated by way of incisive articles on Sudanicology plus a bridging of two cultures, still at a distance.

This season’s issue is quite a serving, with AFROETS commemorating thirty-two years of fortitude in addition to a commentary on controversial plans for 2007 Bicentenary celebrations.

Let me again thank those of you who continue to support this mission, those with their kind words of encouragement, our Guest Editor, all our contributors and especially you the reader.

Happy and intuitive reading.