The Trumpet Newspaper Issue 518 (May 6 - 19 2020)

TheTrumpet
Africans now have a voice... Founded in 1995
V O L 26 N O 518 M AY 6 - 19 2020
THIS
SPACE IS
FOR SALE
Untold
suffering
awaits Sudan
unless it
receives help
In Niger, many young children are suffering the effects of malnutrition Photo - WFP, Simon Pierre Diouf
43 million face
desperate
food shortages
More than 40 million people
across West Africa face
desperate food shortages in
the coming months, with COVID-19
restrictions a new factor adding to
people’s vulnerability, the World
Food Programme (WFP) has warned.
Appealing for continued support
from the international community for
the agency’s global aid
effort, WFP spokesperson Elisabeth
Byrs, warned that the new
coronavirus risked exposing
populations that had fled armed
conflict and endured climate change
emergencies.
“We must sustain our assistance
across the region”, Ms. Byrs said.
“Especially in places such as Central
Sahel, Central African Republic,
Nigeria and Cameroon.”
An estimated 12 million children
under five years old could be acutely
malnourished in the lean season from
June to August, up from 8.2 million
in the same period last year.
The alert follows a similar
warning from the UN agency about a
potentially massive spike in global
food insecurity in East Africa, as a
direct result of the pandemic.
During the lean season in June and
August, more than 21 million people
across West Africa “will struggle to
feed themselves”, she explained,
adding Gambia and Benin to the list
of countries in need.
“An additional 20 million people
could struggle to feed themselves due
to the socio-economic impact
of COVID-19 in the next six months,
doubling the number of foodinsecure
to 43 million in this region”,
the WFP official added.
Continued on Page 4>
The UN High Commissioner for
Human Rights Michelle
Bachelet has expressed serious
concerns about the crisis facing
Sudan’s transition in the midst of the
COVID-19 pandemic, saying that
untold suffering awaits - unless donors
act fast.
Barely a year after the removal
from power of long-time ruler Omar
al-Bashir, Bachelet said the promise of
economic and social development,
democracy, justice and peace is now
being threatened by acute resource
constraints on the Transitional
Government of Sudan.
These are being exacerbated by a
combination of the practical effects of
ongoing unilateral sanctions, the
failure of international institutions to
provide debt-relief, and a deficit of
international support.
“The tipping point,” the UN
Human Rights Chief said, “could be
COVID-19.”
Medical sources have warned
there is a serious shortage of
equipment and protective gear. As of
27 April, 275 people had been tested
positive with COVID-19, 22 of whom
have died.
“The health system is simply not
equipped to handle an outbreak on the
scale we have seen elsewhere in the
world. There is only one way to
prevent a humanitarian disaster, and
that is for the donors to step up and
extend a helping hand to Sudan,” said
Bachelet.
“We must act swiftly and
generously to provide financial
support. Otherwise, we run the risk of
a country which held such promise
Continued on Page 2>

Page2 TheTrumpet MAY 6 - 19 2020
News
Double tragedy as nurse
loses husband and son
- from COVID-19 related illness, and stabbing respectively
London’s Metropolitan Police
detectives continue to appeal for
information following the fatal
stabbing of 24-year-old Marketing
graduate - David Gomoh in Newham.
The Southbank University graduate
was stabbed to death at around 22:25hrs
on Sunday, 26 April, just seconds after
leaving his home.
The attack took place in Freemasons
Road, E16 near the junction with Kerry
Close - in London’s east end.
David’s family were already reeling
from tragedy, following the recent
unexpected death of David’s father from
a COVID-19 related illness.
His father’s funeral was to be
tomorrow.
David, like his mother who is a nurse,
worked for the NHS and was a key
worker helping to keep NHS staff
supplied with essential equipment.
David was talking on the phone to a
female friend when he was stabbed and
was not involved in any argument.
Nothing in David’s background gives
any reason for why he was singled out
and this, along with other evidence,
suggests David was murdered in a totally
unprovoked attack.
Detective Inspector Tony Kirk of the
Metropolitan Police Specialist Crime
Command said. “David’s family are
going through unimaginable torment.
Within days his mother has seen the death
of her husband and son; his sister has lost
her brother and father, both are now
heartbroken.
“David was a young man who had
worked hard to put himself through
university and, like his mother, worked
hard for the community in the NHS. At
this time we believe the only thing David
did to be murdered was walk down a
street. He was apparently approached by
a group of men wearing masks and
stabbed multiple times in a ferocious
assault.
“I have no doubt this was a planned
attack that singled out David because he
happened to be in that area. David and his
mother, who have done so much to help
the community, now need the public to
come forward and tell us what they know.
If you have any information, please think
of this young man and the suffering of his
family and call us. If you don’t want to
give your name, call Crimestoppers, but
do make that call. David’s family deserve
both answers and justice.”
Police believe those involved left the
scene in a stolen Silver Dodge Caliber
that was abandoned at about 22:30hrs in
Lincloln Road, E13 after driving through
the no entry sign from Cumberland Road.
This car had been stolen in Dagenham
on Thursday, 16 April and was on cloned
plates when it was recovered.
Police want to speak to anyone who
was in the area or anyone who
remembers seeing this car, whether
before or after the attack.
In particular, anyone who has dash
cam footage, or CCTV of the area around
where the car was dumped, should
contact detectives.
Detectives from the Met’s Specialist
Crime Command (Homicide) are
standing by to take your call.
There have been no arrests at this
time.
Any witnesses or anyone with any
information is asked to call detectives at
the incident room on 0208 345 3985.
You can also contact via 101 or
Twitter @MetCC. Please quote CAD
8371/26APR.
To give information anonymously
contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
++ Do you know about someone who
is carrying a knife or is involved in
violence? If you have information that
David Gomoh - Killed
could help keep your community safe,
but don’t want to speak to police, please
contact the independent charity
Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They do
not ask your name and cannot trace your
call or I.P address.
Any young people who has
information about violence or knife
crime, can visit www.fearless.org where
they can pass on information
anonymously – your I.P address will not
be traced. Fearless is part of the
Crimestoppers charity, and is also
independent of the police.
Untold suffering awaits Sudan unless
it receives help
Continued from Page 1<
relapsing back into political instability and
potential conflict.”
In a letter to the UN Secretary-General
on 8 April 2020, Sudan’s Prime Minister
Abdalla Hamdok acknowledged that
COVID-19 poses profound challenges to
his country’s health system, economy, and
society as a whole, and he sought financial
and other technical support to tackle the
pandemic.
Of Sudan’s population of 43 million
people, nearly 2 million remain internally
displaced as a result of conflicts in Darfur,
South Kordofan, and Blue Nile State. Most
face dire conditions, living in camps or
settlements, unable to meet their basic
needs. Sudan also hosts more than 1.1
million refugees and migrants.
Even before the arrival of COVID-19,
many Sudanese were battling to make ends
meet due to high unemployment, soaring
inflation, and lack of social protection and
safety nets. These issues have been
compounded by the effects of Sudan still
being on the US list of States sponsoring
terrorism. In addition, Sudan is currently
among the countries not eligible to access
the US$50-billion Trust Fund of the
International Monetary Fund and World
Bank to assist countries to fight COVID-
19.
Separately, the UN Secretary-General
has urged the international community to
do all it can to support the country in its
transition, and during this time of serious
need.
“The only way Sudan will ever be able
to break out of this cycle of poverty and
desperation is to be freed from the
impediments of sanctions imposed at the
time of the previous government. This
would enable Sudan to attract investment
for its much-needed economic reforms, and
to fully access funds of the international
financial institutions,” said Bachelet.
“Inequality, and economic and social
grievances, were the main triggers of
Sudan’s revolution last year. If these and
other root causes are not addressed as a
matter of priority, Sudan’s successful
transition to achieving a durable peace
remains distant.”
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MAY 6 - 19 2020 TheTrumpet
Page3

Page4
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PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:
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Highest forced displacement in Africa
Highlighting people’s vulnerabilities,
Babar Baloch from the UN High
Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR),
described West and Central Africa as
“one of largest displacement situations
in Africa…we are talking about 5.6
million internally displaced people,
more than 1.3 million refugees and 1.6
million stateless.”
The UN refugee agency has
repeatedly called for greater support for
increasing numbers of people forced to
flee for their lives amid renewed conflict
in West Africa’s turbulent Sahel and
Lake Chad region.
Burkina Faso has also witnessed
massive displacement - of more than
838,000 people since January 2019 – a
figure which keeps climbing with each
passing day.
In recent weeks, the agency said that
armed groups had targeted thousands of
Malian refugees sheltering in camps
near the border of Burkina Faso and
Mali.
The agency condemned attacks on 2
May on Malian refugees in Burkina
Faso – “reportedly by the country’s
security forces”, in Mentao refugee
camp in which at least 32 people were
injured.
The camp is located in Burkina
Faso’s volatile Sahel region close to the
border with Mali and hosts some 6,500
refugees, UNHCR said in a statement.
For WFP the priority continues to be
the most vulnerable individuals.
Hand-to-mouth existence
They include “the urban poor - who
live hand-to-mouth – (who) are most at
risk”, Ms. Byrs said, highlighting how
COVID-19 travel restrictions had
compromised the transport of supplies
and the functioning of open-air markets
that serve most people, resulting in price
increases in some countries.
Movement restrictions could also
affect farmers as the planting season
approaches, WFP said in a statement,
warning that “an inadequate response”
News
43 million face desperate
food shortages
Continued from Page 1<
to current needs “would put the future
well-being of millions of people in the
region at stake, particularly women and
young children”.
It could also lead to civil unrest in
parts of a region already challenged by
insecurity and violent extremism, the
agency said, before adding that it was
seeking to overcome challenges in
partnership with the authorities.
A significant problem is the halt in
school meal distribution, which has
affected 18 million pupils supported
through Government-led programmes
and 2.2 million schoolchildren in WFPsupported
schools.
“When Governments have had to
close schools and stop (serving) school
meals, we have worked with them,” said
Ms. Byrs. “We are working with them,
to organize distribution points for the
most vulnerable families who can take
food rations so that they aren’t
penalized, as schools have been forced
to shut, in line with confinement
measures.”
She added: “We have put in place
monitoring and evaluation systems to
help us to target the most at-risk
populations, and we do that with
partners, with Governments of course,
and the international humanitarian
community, in the largest sense of the
term.”
WFP urgently requires an additional
$574 million to provide crucial
assistance for the next six months in
West Africa. These requirements are
likely to increase in the coming weeks
as the impact of COVID-19 is fully
analysed.
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MAY 6 - 19 2020 TheTrumpet
Page5

Page6 TheTrumpet MAY 6 - 19 2020

News
MAY 6 - 19 2020
TheTrumpet
World Bank approves $40m to provide
income support to South Sudan households
Page7
A$40 million grant from the World
Bank’s International
Development Association will
fund a two and half years Project to
provide income support to nearly 430,000
low income South Sudanese. The Project
will be implemented by the United
Nations Office for Project Services
(UNOPS) in South Sudan.
UNOPS will deliver the South Sudan
Safety Net Project (SSSNP), in
partnership with the Ministry of
Agriculture and Food Security, Ministry
of Gender and Social Welfare and the
Ministry of Finance and Planning to
ensure that low income and vulnerable
people are provided with reliable access
to income opportunities and temporary
employment.
“I am very pleased that South Sudan
is receiving additional funding which will
be used to build on the achievements of
previous safety net projects while scaling
up the provision of predictable and
reliable cash transfers to vulnerable South
Sudanese,” said Hon. Josephine Joseph
Lagu, Minister of Agriculture and Food
Security. “This will not only improve
food security for thousands of people, but
it will also increase their resilience to
economic and climate-related crises or
shocks,” she added.
The Project comes at the
unprecedented time of the COVID-19
pandemic. In order to adapt the Project to
the COVID-19 context and address rising
socio-economic vulnerability, the project
will rapidly roll-out immediate ‘direct
income support’ and respond to the
economic impact of COVID-19 on the
lives of the vulnerable communities.
“In the first phase, the SSSNP will
scale up direct income support in Juba
County to provide rapid cash transfers to
address emerging vulnerabilities amidst
COVID 19 outbreak. As the COVID 19
situation subsides, cash transfers will be
expanded in all the other nine project
locations across the country,” said Husam
Abudagga, World Bank Country
Manager for South Sudan speaking at
virtual project debrief meeting attended
by the Minister of Agriculture and Food
Security, and the Under Secretary of the
Ministry of the Ministry of Agriculture
and Food Security, the World Bank team,
and UNOPS representatives.
Peter Mutoredzanwa, the Country
Representative of UNOPS in South
Sudan reiterated that: “UNOPS
continues to work closely with the World
Bank, the Government of South Sudan
and other key partners to deliver essential
social services, improve living conditions
and enhance social development.” He
further added that “ The project will
address immediate consumption gaps by
scaling up cash transfers to poor and
vulnerable households by facilitating
improved and more frequent meals.”
The Project will provide income
security to the most vulnerable
households – including households with
people with extreme vulnerabilities, such
as persons with disabilities, the elderly,
expectant women and those living with
HIV/AIDS amongst others.
Claims of death of COVID-19 vaccine
volunteer - Elisa Granato, are false
By ‘Femi Okutubo
Claims about the death of Europe‘s
first human volunteer in the trial
of a potential COVID-19 vaccine
- Elisa Granato, are false.
Elisa Granato
Oxford-based Granato is one of two
volunteers injected earlier in the week
with this trial vaccine. She is a Post-
Doctoral Researcher studying Bacterial
Interactions and how they evolved, and
currently works with Prof. Kevin Foster
at the University of Oxford.
In a tweet, Granato said: “Nothing
like waking up to a fake article on your
death... I’m doing fine everyone. Please
don’t share the article in question, we
don’t want to give them attention / clicks.
Have a cute cat instead!”
Over 800 people have been recruited
for the study - which will see half
receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, and the
other half receiving a control vaccine
which protects against Meningitis but not
Coronavirus.
The design of the trial means
volunteers will not know which vaccine
they have received, although doctors will.
The vaccine was developed in under
three months by a team at Oxford
University. Sarah Gilbert, Vaccinology
Professor at the Jenner Institute, led the
pre-clinical research.
The vaccine is made from a weakened
version of a common cold virus (known
as an adenovirus) from chimpanzees that
has been modified so it cannot grow in
humans.
Elisa Granato
MoneyGram offers NHS heroes 20% discount
International Money Transfer
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announced 20% off all send fees for
staff of the United Kingdom’s National
Health Service (NHS). The offer is
available either online or at Post Office
and Tesco locations across the UK. NHS
staff just need to bring their NHS ID and
quote ‘NHSHERO’ when sending money
at a location.
Tesco is also offering early opening
hours on Tuesday’s, Thursday’s (8am –
9am) and Sunday’s (9am – 10am) so
NHS staff can combine their grocery
shopping and money transfer in one visit,
making things a little easier.
Richard Meredith, Head of UK Key
Partnerships at MoneyGram, said “We
are proud to be supporting our NHS staff
in these difficult times and are working
closely with our long-term partners to
make money transfer a little easier.”
The NHS offer is live on the
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from 20 th April 2020 and is valid until
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MoneyGram offers quick and
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Page8 TheTrumpet MAY 6 - 19 2020
Reunion
Race to reunite a family during the
COVID-19 pandemic
They have been separated for four years
because of the conflict in North-eastern
Nigeria. Had they ever imagined that a
global pandemic might postpone their
reunion? For Alia* and her daughter, who
both bear the mental scars of being separated,
it was already too long. Too violent. Too
traumatic.
As the number of confirmed cases
increases steadily each week, the Nigerian
authorities have stepped up preventive
measures to curb the spread of the disease,
imposing a lockdown in several States.
In Borno State, the epicentre of the
conflict in the North-East, a grim scenario
weighs heavily on many minds; the spread of
the virus in the overstretched and
overcrowded camps, where social distancing
and access to clean water are far from granted.
“We got the address of the mother”, Safiya
says, after talking to traditional leaders
gathered in the shade.
Safiya works for the International
Committee for the Red Cross, which helps
reunite family members separated during the
armed conflict, together with the Nigerian Red
Cross Society. Under a scorching sun, Safiya
follows one of the leaders to the mother’s
house, walking past a Mosque riddled with
Aicha's grandmother's rug
bullets and the rubble of buildings destroyed
during a flare-up of violence. It’s a painful
reminder that the conflict has not slowed
down to allow the virus to run its course.
The good news has spread throughout the
neighbourhood. Aicha* is alive. Everyone
stops what they were doing. The women
Race to reunite Aicha
seated under the tree have suddenly found a
more exciting topic to talk about. Aicha’s
grandmother stands up from her blue rug in
the corridor, where a few onions, leaves for
soup and nuts lay.
A sense of relief and happiness fills the tiny
courtyard where neighbours and relatives
stand side by side. Aicha’s picture goes from
hand to hand as if they can’t believe it.
“It’s her... Yes, it’s her... No doubt it’s her”,
a group of women says, while staring at the
teenager’s face.
The lively grandmother thanks God over
and over for bringing her granddaughter back.
Amid the brouhaha, a frail woman stands. Her
voice has not yet been heard. She has neither
a smile nor tears on her face. Her silence says
a lot, probably more than the commotion
surrounding her.
“The mother nearly lost her mind after
what happened to her daughter,” a neighbour
whispers.
“When will Aicha come back?” a relative
asks.
Safiya pauses, thinking of the recent
restrictions of movements that could put the
reunification on hold for months.
“Within a month,” she tells the family.
“When they asked about her return, I had
Coronavirus in mind and the challenges we
might face in the future to move with the
helicopter,” Safiya later explains. “I didn’t
want to raise expectations, but I knew that we
would try our best to make it happen. As soon
as we came back to the office, I launched the
process of the reunification.”
Thousands of parents like Alia are still
searching for their children who have gone
missing during the conflict that has raged on
for more than 10 years.
In the meantime, more COVID-19 cases have
been confirmed nationwide, prompting the
authorities to go further with the restrictions
of movement. In Borno State, where only half
of its roughly 700 health facilities still
function, authorities and humanitarian
organizations are trying to coordinate their
response.
How long will Safiya and her team be able
to travel and reunite people? No one knows.
The following week, they finally travel by
helicopter to the town where Aicha had found
refuge a few months ago. Temperature checks,
hand sanitizers, and no handshakes are
precautions being taken to avoid the spread of
the virus.
Once they arrived, Safiya looks at the file.
It says that Aicha is 18. She looks 15, or even
less, wrapped in a purple-tinted veil. She
shows the picture of the family to Aicha.
Despite the flow of emotions, she
immediately recognizes the members of her
family in a picture.
Safiya explains to the caregiver how and
when the reunion will happen. Aicha, seated
with the woman who looked after her for
months, listens keenly without interrupting.
Her dark eyes wander as if she is still
processing what is happening.
A few moments later, she speaks with her
uncle using a satellite phone provided by the
ICRC team, and suddenly everything
becomes real. Both sides are now convinced
that they will be reunited. It’s just a matter of
time.
“Let’s try to make it...We don’t know
whether we will be able to travel next
week...”, several members of the team keep
saying, a few days before the reunification.
COVID-19 has added uncertainties in an
already unpredictable region.
A smile spreads across Aicha’s face before
she boards the helicopter. She carries her
breakfast of mashed potatoes and a few
belongings in a black backpack. Throughout
the trip, she remains calm and gazes over the
arid landscape from the window of the
helicopter. On the way to her house by car, she
tries to connect the dots after four years. She
recognizes the main road, then the police
station on the right and the crossroads that
leads to her home.
A hot wind is blowing through the
corridor of the house as Aicha rushes in. A
scream is heard. Aicha’s mother has found her
voice and her tears.
“I won’t cry”, says the grandmother while
taking Aicha’s hands. “If I start crying,
everyone’s going to cry.”
* The names have been changed.
Credits: International Committee of the
Red Cross (ICRC).

Policing
MAY 6 - 19 2020
TheTrumpet
Page9
COVID-19 lockdown - ‘I’ve learnt
so much in just three weeks‘
- PC Yanique Bailey
When Yanique Bailey first
applied to join the
Metropolitan Police Service in
2017, she thought she knew most of the
challenges she would face.
What she didn’t expect was a London
with far fewer people on the streets and
having to remind herself to stand two
metres away from her new colleagues
whenever possible.
“It’s obviously not what we thought
things would look like when we came out
of training school,” she said.
“At the moment, we don’t really
know any different – this is the only
London we have policed! But it’s a
learning curve for everyone, not just us.
“We are really trying our best to make
sure the public follow the rules and
guidelines and are only leaving the house
when necessary, and so far most people
I’ve spoken to have been very
understanding and co-operative.
“In reality, a lot of what we are doing
is exactly what we trained for and what
we will always do – talking to the public
and engaging with them – and I already
feel like I’ve learnt so much in just three
weeks.”
Like Yanique, just over 300 recruits
joined their new command units last
month and have now spent almost a
month out in their communities,
supervised by some of the Met’s most
experienced officers.
Earlier this year, two probationers on
Health
street duties were on patrol with three
experienced constables on Great West
Road in Hounslow when a passenger in a
taxi came to their attention.
The officers signalled for the vehicle
to stop and detained the passenger as he
attempted to make off on foot.
Following a search, he was found to
be in possession of a firearm and a
quantity of cash and drugs - and was
arrested.
Commander Helen Millichap, said:
“There is no denying that the London our
newest officers are now policing looks
very different to what they would have
expected when they applied for the job,
but it is clear that our recruits are playing
a more vital role than ever in keeping our
PC Yanique Bailey
communities safe.
“I know they are extremely proud to
be doing their bit in maintaining our
visibility on the streets, engaging with the
public and responding to calls for
assistance where necessary.”
“We’ve been through more difficult
times; we shall overcome this”
– midwife at COVID-19 frontline
By Arlene Alano
profession that has
historically always placed
“In a
patients’ needs first, the degree
of sacrifice being demanded of us now is
unprecedented,” says midwife Justine
Mangwi.
With the first cases of the new
coronavirus disease (COVID-19) having
been confirmed in South Sudan in early
April, he is concerned about protecting
mothers and their newborns from being
infected both in their communities and in
the health facility.
Expectant mothers are already
expressing a preference to deliver at
home instead of at a hospital as they are
aware of the risk of contracting COVID-
19 when they leave their homes. This
worries him, as home delivery increases
the risk of maternal death or injury.
“I tell them that switching their birth
plan could be dangerous. A home birth
environment is just as susceptible to the
spread of the coronavirus,” Mr. Mangwi
points out. “Pandemic or no pandemic,
the hospital has a team and the equipment
available to save lives in case of
pregnancy or childbirth complications.”
The midwife has a reason to be
concerned. South Sudan has a maternal
mortality ratio of 789 deaths per 100,000
Midwife Justine Mangwi counsels a new mother on
caring for her newborn, at Juba Teaching
Hospital, South Sudan.
(Photo - UNFPA, Bruno Feder)
live births – one of the highest in the
world. One of the contributing factors to
the country’s high maternal death rate is
low skilled birth attendance. Only 15 per
cent of women deliver with the assistance
of a trained birth attendant, such as a
midwife.
Until early April, South Sudan had
remained COVID-19 free. The virus now
adds to the many already existing factors
that could cause pregnancy and childbirth
complications.
UNFPA, the United Nations
Population Fund, is working with the
Ministry of Health to put in place
measures to ensure that maternal health
and other sexual and reproductive health
services are safeguarded to prevent
deaths and illnesses, especially among
pregnant and breastfeeding women and
their newborns.
Measures are also being put in place
to protect frontline health workers,
including midwives. The plan includes
recruiting additional midwives to support
the anticipated surge in demand for health
care.
Mr. Mangwi is one of 26 midwives
who have been deployed by UNFPA to
various hospitals under the Strengthening
Midwifery Services Project to provide
sexual and reproductive health services,
as well as mentor midwifery students at
Health Science Institutes. The project,
supported by the governments of Canada
and Sweden, seeks to fill the huge need
for skilled health personnel.
At independence from Sudan in 2011,
the country had only eight qualified
midwives. Since the launch of the
midwifery project in 2012, the number of
trained midwives has grown to more than
800 today.
Mr. Mangwi has been preparing for
his critical role in the COVID-19
response. He has completed online
training courses and is participating in
virtual meetings on the World Health
Organization (WHO) protocols on
COVID-19 for health workers. At Torit
Hospital, where he works, he is part of
the Rapid Response Team taking on the
role of a risk communicator.
Yet, more needs to be done. The
government should provide vital
equipment, such as ventilators, for the
hospitals as well as personal protective
equipment for the frontline health
workers. Those at the frontline will be
more motivated and confident when they
have the skills they need and feel that
they are supported, he asserts.
“This situation calls for everyone to
show commitment to help prevent our
country from being wiped out by this
merciless pandemic. Now, it is the turn of
health workers to fight the coronavirus
war for our country,” he says.
Mr. Mangwi maintains a mindset of
resilience as he stands ready to serve at
the frontlines of the COVID-19 response.
“We have been through difficult times
and I believe we shall overcome this. I
pray each day for good health and a long
life so I can tell some of my stories to my
children.”

Page10 TheTrumpet MAY 6 - 19 2020
Health
‘Let’s fight this together,’ urges
Nigerian COVID-19 survivor
Salihu Umar
Thirty-five-year old Salihu Umar
was diagnosed with COVID-19
after returning from a six-day trip
to London in March 2020. Although
asymptomatic, he tested positive and
underwent treatment. Having recovered
and back with his family in the Nigerian
capital Abuja, the father of three stresses
the importance of getting tested
especially after having travelled to an
area affected by the virus.
“I initially did not show any
symptoms. Knowing fully well about the
guidelines for people who travelled to
high risk areas like the UK, I self-isolated
for a day and decided to get in touch with
the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control
(NCDC) to take the COVID-19 test to be
on the safe side.
Health officials showed up … they
promised to get back to me the next day
or later that same day. It however took
three days to get a response from them.
(Days later) I got a call from a doctor
who introduced herself as an NCDC
official. She broke the unfortunate news
that my result turned out positive. She
added that they need to take another
sample to rerun the test for confirmation.
I could not believe her as I was not
showing any symptoms. At some point,I
felt it was a mistake, but I couldn’t do
anything to prove them wrong as that’s
the only place that runs the tests.
In a few minutes, NCDC officials
picked me from my house to
Gwagwalada Isolation Centre. Upon
arrival, I was examined by a doctor and
placed on some medications.The doctors
gave me some counselling and assured
me of their commitment to making sure
we make it out of the isolation centre
healthy. The doctor added that even
though I was asymptomatic, I still
needed to commence treatment as soon
as possible.
I had mixed feelings, especially
knowing that the disease has no cure and
the number of people the virus kills every
day.
It was quite depressing, being
confined in a facility away from family
and friends. It was the first time I was in
that kind of situation. I was always (up
and about) and suddenly I couldn’t
move. From face timing (online chatting)
with my family to tweeting and linking
up with friends to sending emails. There
was no time my kids missed me for one
day. We were always connected.
A week into my isolation, another
sample was taken to see how I was
progressing. Unfortunately, it still came
back positive. At that point I was losing
hope for survival. The doctors assured
me of my progress, saying I was doing
well…
Lo and behold, another sample was
taken on the twelfth day of isolation and
it came out negative. Another one was
taken after a few days and was still
negative. I was free to go but was
advised to self-isolate for one more week
to ensure full recuperation and
completion of the drugs which I did and
Let’s fight COVID-19 together
finally finish without showing any more
symptoms. That was the last time I heard
from NCDC.
I’m so grateful to the NCDC, World
Health Organization and all the doctors
and the nurses in Nigeria who risked
their lives to save my life.
For those battling COVID-19, I want
you to know that this disease is not a
death sentence. Never succumb to fear.
As for other people hiding their travel
history and symptoms for fear of social
stigma, you can do better. Let us fight
this together. Do the necessary. Go get
tested.”
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Energy
MAY 6 - 19 2020 TheTrumpet Page11
Should Africa consider the nuclear
energy route?
By African Energy Chamber
Despite its advancements over the
years particularly in the oil, gas
and power industries, it is no
secret that Africa is still plagued with the
very real issue of inefficient energy supply.
Recording nearly 600 million people with
no access to electricity, the question of
what it will take to eliminate poverty in
Africa is prevalent now more than ever.
While the continent has enjoyed great
achievements in oil and gas developments
and seen the launch of numerous
successful renewable energy programmes,
bringing online large scale world-class
projects, it still has not managed to close
the power gap as it hedges forward with its
goal of sustainable energy mixes. So,
what’s next for Africa?
With rising populations and high
electricity costs, African countries are
investing in various sources for electricity
generation but, one remains largely
unimplemented and, not without reason.
Nuclear energy and Africa
Nuclear energy is widely unexplored
on the continent with South Africa
remaining the only country with a
commercialised nuclear power plant.
Egypt is home to one of the oldest nuclear
power programmes. Launched in 1954, the
programme is responsible for the 4.8 GW
El Dabaa nuclear power plant, currently in
the construction phase. The project will be
developed by, Russian State Atomic
Energy Corporation (ROSATOM) - the
biggest nuclear power player in Africa
having concluded Memoranda of
Understanding with Kenya, Nigeria,
Sudan, Zambia and Uganda.
Kenya’s first nuclear reactor is set for
completion in 2027 while Uganda’s 2019
Inter-Governmental Agreement with
ROSATOM to help develop nuclear
infrastructure remains in place.
Though it has not made any
announcements in regards to
implementing nuclear in its energy mix,
earlier this year, Senegal shared its
readiness for nuclear energy, through its
Integrated Nuclear Security Support Plan
(INSSP) developed alongside the
International Atomic Energy Agency
(IAEA).
“Before the INSSP, we did not consider
nuclear security to be a problem that
affected our country, as we do not have a
nuclear power programme. In cooperation
with the International Atomic Energy
Agency, we are working to assess our
threats,” said Ndèye Arame Boye Faye,
Director General of Senegal’s regulatory
body, the Radiation Protection and Nuclear
Safety Authority. “Since working with the
IAEA, we have also reassessed our
priorities and capabilities and enhanced
our competencies in the field of nuclear
security,” he told the agency.
The challenges of nuclear energy
Nuclear energy is one of the more
attractive options when considering a
clean, reliable and cost-effective energy
source. But, it does not come without its
challenges.
For instance, it could take years for a
country anywhere in the world to initiate a
nuclear power programme and,
infrastructure development could not come
any sooner than 10 -15 years. Simply put,
the nuclear route requires a lot of patience
and dedication – especially in Africa where
a number of countries are working towards
development.
According to Miliko Kovachev, Head
of the International Atomic Energy
Agency’s Nuclear Infrastructure
Development Section: “A successful
nuclear power programme requires broad
political and popular support and a
national commitment of at least 100
years.”
100 years, a commitment that would
not address Africa’s pressing power needs
in the near term, especially with Sub-
Saharan Africa’s population set to double
over the next 30 years.
But, there is an alternative solution. Small
scale nuclear reactors.
Defined by the World Nuclear
Association as reactors that are generally
300MWe equivalent or less, small scale
nuclear reactors are designed with modular
technology using module factory
fabrication, pursuing economies of series
production and short construction times,
making them one of the more practical
Should Africa consider nuclear energy
solutions for African countries.
Another major hurdle of nuclear
energy is financing. Due to its high cost of
implementation, African countries looking
at nuclear energy could be deterred. “But,
there are financing mechanisms like, for
instance, from export agencies of vendor
countries. Tapping into a reliable, carbonfree
supply of energy when vendors are
offering to fund it can make sense for
several countries in Africa,” said
Kovachev.
American entrepreneurial firms that
understand Africa are likely to succeed.
IP3 International, a firm founded by retired
Navy Rear Admiral Michael Hewitt,
retired Army General John Keane, and
Robert McFarlane, a former national
security adviser to President Ronald
Reagan is likely to make a strong play with
an innovative approach that puts Africans
at the foundation of it and also driven by
local empowerment.
All these challenges are not ones that
cannot be overcome and, Africa is ready to
take them on.“Platforms such as the
International Framework for Nuclear
Energy Cooperation and IP3 International
are essential in opening the dialogue on the
right approaches for Africa,” said NJ Ayuk,
Executive Chairman of the African Energy
Chamber. “Because nuclear energy is still
a foreign concept to many African
economies, we need to take our lessons
from the rest of the world and, participate
in the conversations on nuclear efficiency,
safety and security ensuring that when the
time comes for us to move forward with
nuclear, we have laid the foundation.”
Nuclear energy and the climate
change debate
As the climate change debate continues
and the global community seeks cleaner
energy sources, the shift towards nuclear
power for African countries would mean
that they are able to reduce their carbon
emissions as expressed under the Paris
Agreement.
“African economic growth, job
creation, and improved quality of life
depend on affordable, abundant energy,
nuclear-powered energy is clean, reliable
and affordable” said Ayuk. “It is a
workable solution for Africa. Of course, it
will take a lot of time, hard work and it will
be challenging but, we need to look at
alternative energy solutions. Our
populations are rising and the gap is
widening, we need to address the power
issue and, we need to be open to doing it
through exploring different routes,” he
added.
In advancing nuclear power
programmes, the African Energy Chamber
encourages governments to show strong
political will and create enabling
environments for nuclear to take its place
in our energy mixes. In getting started,
African countries need to push forward
with the programmes, put in place policies
and regulations and, take lessons from the
rest of China and Russia. If we are to close
the power gap, we need to act now. Energy
is the backbone of our development.

Page12 TheTrumpet MAY 6 - 19 2020
Earn money as a Trumpet Ambassador
campaign.
Sale of Banner Adverts, ‘Highlights’ and
Mail-shots our in Email Newsletters.
With rates ranging from £100 to £500 per
insertion, we pay Ambassadors a 15%
Commission.
Sale of Advertising on our Social Media
channels.
With rates ranging between £100 to £200
per channel per post, we pay a 15%
Commission.
Sale of Sponsorship, Advertising,
Exhibition spaces and Tickets for GAB
Awards and Trumpet Connect.
With most products and services ranging
between £100 and £20,000, we pay a 15%
Commission.
Engagement Status
Our freelance Ambassadors run their own
business, work from their own home or
office, and choose the amount of time
they devote to the programme. They work
towards the amount they want to earn.
They choose their legal status in terms of
whether they operate as a Self-Employed
individual or a Limited Company or any
other appropriate status depending on the
country they operate, but we suggest you
take professional advice on this.
Ambassadors are fully responsible for
ensuring their tax affairs and other related
issues fulfil the legal requirements of their
country of operation.
Incentives
From time to time, to incentivise our
Ambassadors, we may run special
promotions, or reward achievements,
milestones and introduction of other
Ambassadors to the programme through
cash or advert credits.
About Us
Trumpet Media Group is an
international media organisation with
various media products, services and
events targeting Africa, Africans and Friends
of Africa in the Diaspora and on the
Continent.
Its first media venture - Trumpet Newspaper
started 23 years ago - in 1995, closely
followed by the founding of the prestigious
Gathering of Africa’s Best (GAB) Awards in
1999. There are a number of other niche
products, services and events - with plans to
grow our portfolio over the coming months
and years.
Sales Ambassadors
Our planned future growth has given rise to
the need to take on talented and ambitious
Sales Ambassadors who share our vision of:
promoting the positive image of Africa and
Africans, and are able to sell some (or all) of
our growing number of products and services
on a freelance basis.
Products and Services
We are introducing our portfolio of products,
services, and events below on to the Trumpet
Ambassadors Programme (TAP) in phases.
Print Newspapers: The Trumpet Newspaper
and Trumpet Ghana Newspaper.
Website: www.TrumpetMediaGroup.com
Email Newsletters: Trumpet Newsbreaker,
Trumpet Kenya, Trumpet Nigeria, Trumpet
Sierra Leone, Trumpet Gambia, Trumpet
Ghana
Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,
Pinterest, LinkedIn, Google+ and WhatsApp.
Events: GAB Awards and Trumpet Connect.
The Opportunities
Opportunities to earn revenue through
Commissions are currently available by
way of:
Sale of Subscriptions to any (or both) of
our Print Newspapers.
With Annual Subscriptions starting from
£60, we pay a 10% Commission.
Distribution and Sales of bulk copies our
Newspapers.
We pay a 35% Commission - split between
the Ambassador and the Sales Outlet.
(Outlets will usually take between 15%
and 25% depending on its type and your
negotiating skills.)
Ambassadors may choose to sell directly
to their clientele or at events and keep the
entire 35% Commission.
Sale of Advertising Spaces in our Print
Newspapers.
With most Advert Spaces ranging from
£80 to £4500 per edition, we pay a 15%
Commission. You receive a Commission
on all editions in the campaign in line
with the Client’s payment - for example, if
an advertiser books and pays for six
editions, you get a Commission on all six
editions.
Sale of Banner Adverts on Website
With Banner Adverts ranging between
£50 and £200 per week, we pay a 15%
Commission for the length of the
Payments
Commission Payments to Ambassadors
are made by the 15th day of the month
following payment of Clients - For
example, Commission on Clients’
payments in January will be paid by 15th
February.
Distribution and Sales of bulk copies of
Newspapers (4.3) are excluded from the
payment arrangement above (7.1).
An Ambassador buys and pays for bulk
copies in advance at a discounted rate
with the TAP Commission deducted upfront.
For example, if an Ambassador
orders bulk copies worth £100 in advance,
the Ambassador only pays us £65
(deducting the 35% Commission upfront).
We operate a No-Returns policy on
Newspaper Sales.
Joining the Programme
It currently costs £100 per annum to join
the Trumpet Ambassadors Programme
(TAP).
Introductory Offer - Join the programme
by 31 August 2018 and accumulate sales
of at least £1000 across any or all of our
products by 30 September 2018; and we
will reward you with 100 TAP Points
worth £100 - which you can spend on any
of our opportunities (4.2) - (4.8).
To join the programme, please request the
Trumpet Ambassadors Programme Form
and via email: info@the-trumpet.com

GAB Awards
Faces at GAB Awards
MAY 6 - 19 2020
TheTrumpet
Page13

Page14 TheTrumpet MAY 6 - 19 2020
Sport
Sarah Essam, Stoke City’s Egyptian queen
By FIFA.com
Sarah Essam hit the headlines in 2017
after becoming the first Egyptian and
Arab woman to play in the FA Women’s
Premier League. The gifted player more
recently earned public acclaim on her
return to Egypt after responding strongly
to domestic criticism and praising the
health measures taken by the Egyptian
authorities in combating the COVID-19
pandemic. In doing so, she showed that
living abroad has in no way diminished
her love of Egypt.
While in quarantine in Cairo, where she
recently celebrated her 21st birthday, the
first Egyptian woman to play
professionally in Europe opened her
heart up to FIFA.com, talking, among
other things, about her bourgeoning
career and how she ended up playing in
England.
Challenge and choice
Asked about the genesis of her football
journey, Essam said, “Growing up, I’d
play football with my brother. I was the
only girl among a group of boys taking
part in kickabouts. I liked football even
though I was very good at basketball, but
I naturally like a challenge and so I didn’t
hesitate to opt for football over all other
sports.
“Over time I gained more skills in
competing with boys until I became even
better than them. It was a beautiful
feeling to get the boys’ recognition of my
football ability, especially in a society
that has always considered football a
‘boys’ game’. I faced some resistance
from my family who initially thought
football wouldn’t be the right
environment for me.”
Sarah continued to tread that difficult
path and decided to join the Wadi Degla
club, where she was soon promoted to the
first team. She then received a call-up to
the Egyptian national team, who were
preparing for the 2016 CAF Africa Cup
of Nations. “I felt everything was going
well. I’d get up at five in the morning to
start training in order to be physically and
technically prepared, but I was shocked
when I was omitted from the final squad
list for the tournament.”
The first steps
However, Sarah did not give up,
believing her efforts would ultimately
pay off. Two years later, she packed her
bags and decided to accompany her sister
to England in order to look for trials with
English clubs. “I knocked on every door
Sarah Essam
Sarah Essam
and ended up having trials with several
different clubs, until finally I signed for
Stoke City in 2017 in what was the best
moment of my career. I was very happy
to reach a point where I could show my
potential.”
Despite the enormous differences
between life in Egypt and England, Sarah
knew that adapting to her new
surroundings would be a prerequisite for
success.
“I knew it was going to be difficult, but I
was psychologically and mentally
motivated to make this major transition. I
have to admit that this quick adaptation
wouldn’t have been possible without the
help I got from my team-mates. They
supported me in training and games.
They’re not only team-mates, but also
close friends with whom I stay in touch
when I’m in Cairo.”
Essam is enjoying her experience in
England, where the excitement of the
Women’s Super League reminds her of
the thrilling Premier League action she
Sarah Essam
used to watch on TV growing up in
Egypt. “Yes, the women’s game has come
on remarkably in recent years. All the
players know that many fans are
watching them and expect to see quality
on the pitch. I think we work very hard
and demonstrate our great abilities in
games, which in turn motivates fans to
come out and support us.”
Ambitions and dreams
Once professional, players have to
dedicate most of their time to football.
But Sarah, who made enormous
sacrifices for the game and her club, has
not abandoned her academic goals. “I’ve
put a lot of effort into football, but I never
gave up on my university studies. I’m
studying civil engineering in England
despite many people telling me it’d be
difficult to reconcile football and college.
I decided to take up the challenge and I
continue to do my best on both fronts. I
want to serve my country by playing
professionally, and I also want to earn a
college degree for my future.”
“My day starts early. I prepare my meals
for the whole day at six in the morning
and then take the train to university,
which is located in another city. From
there I then go on to Stoke. I usually have
breakfast on the train, where I also study.
I’ve decided to devote my life to my
passions. Even on holidays, I’m not on
my sofa watching TV, but rather
exercising to stay in good shape. I don’t
think of this as a sacrifice, as I’m doing
what I love.”
Reaping what you sow
A year after the move to the UK, Essam’s
hard work began to pay dividends,
including being given the 2018 Arab
Woman of the Year: Achievement in Sport
award by the London Arabia
Organisation.
“I’m very proud to have won the award,
especially since I’m the first Egyptian to
receive this honour. My performances
drew attention from many individuals
and institutions. I even got an offer from
the BBC to provide commentary on the
Continued on Page 16>

MAY 6 - 19 2020
TheTrumpet
Page15
We are recruiting:
Independent Sales Consultants
Trumpet Media Group - an
international media
organisation targeting Africa,
Africans and Friends of Africa
in the Diaspora and on the
Continent was founded 24
years ago - in 1995.
Our growth has given rise to the need to engage the services
of self-employed Independent Sales Consultants and
organisations to sell some (or all) of our growing number of
products and services on a Commission-only basis.
The Opportunities
Opportunities to earn revenue through Commissions are
currently available by way of:
· Sale of Subscriptions to our Print Newspapers.
· Distribution and Sales of bulk copies our Newspapers.
· Sale of Advertising Spaces in our Print Newspapers.
· Sale of Banner Adverts on Website.
· Sale of Banner Adverts, ‘Highlights’ and Mail-shots in Email
Newsletters.
· Sale of Advertising posts on our Social Media channels.
· Sale of Sponsorship, Advertising, Exhibition spaces and
Tickets for GAB Awards and other events.
To apply, please email: info@the-trumpet.com

Page16 TheTrumpet MAY 6 - 19 2020
Sport
Kabore’s century ambition
By FIFA.com
It would be fair to say that the green
jersey of Burkina Faso holds no secrets
for Charles Kabore. With 94
appearances to his name, he is the mostcapped
player in the country’s history.
Over a 14-year international career, he
has seen almost everything with ‘Les
Etalons’ (The Stallions), having
participated in five CAF Africa Cups of
Nations, including the 2013 final. The one
notable omission, however, is a FIFA
World Cup appearance, which the player
admits he is unlikely to ever realise.
“For teams of the calibre of Burkina
Faso, the chance to qualify might only
present itself once every 20 years. And I
didn’t manage to seize that chance when it
presented itself to me,” the defensive
midfielder told FIFA.com, referring to the
agonising defeat on the away-goals rule to
Algeria in a play-off for Brazil 2014.
“That remains a huge regret, as that was
my chance and I don’t see myself getting
Charles Kabore
a child, I watched every game my country
played. Today, I still relish the chance to be
in contention and would love to participate
in a sixth Africa Cup in 2021.”
The Captain’s ambition is
understandable, given that it was precisely
in Africa’s premier competition that he
enjoyed his finest moments with ‘Les
Etalons’.
“CAN 2013 is certainly one of my best
memories,” Kabore said. “We didn’t have
an extraordinary team that year, but we
made up for it with our immense solidarity.
Contesting a continental final with that
group was really beautiful! I also
remember our great performance at CAN
2017, where we finished third while
playing with style.”
These two performances remain the
country’s finest to date. Suffice to say, then,
that Kabore, the leader of that generation
of players, is already assured his place in
the annals of Burkinabe football. Who is to
say, though, that he will not acquire even
greater legendary status in the months
ahead?
“No Burkina Faso player has ever won
100 caps,” he said. “It’s a goal that appeals
to me and one I’ll do everything possible
to achieve.”
Sarah Essam, Stoke
City’s Egyptian queen
another one. That said, I’m very hopeful
for the future of the national team.”
In their quest to reach Qatar 2022, the
team will once again be facing Algeria, as
well as Niger and Djibouti during the
second round of African qualifying.
According to the player, however, those are
fixtures that are unlikely to feature him.
“Burkina Faso must turn over a new
page,” he said. “The players of my
generation have had their day and have
represented the country well. A beautiful
new generation is coming through, and
they must be given their chance.
“There are a good number of talented
young Burkinabe players coming through
in different places. Besides Bertrand Traore
Charles Kabore
(Lyon), there is Lassina Traore (Ajax) and
Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen), to
name just a few. They can get us to a World
Cup – I’m convinced of it.
“In principle, it will be without me,
because I’m not expecting to feature in the
qualifiers. I haven’t given up on
representing the team, though!”
While the player is still performing to a
high level with Russian heavyweights
Dynamo Moscow, the club he joined in
2019 after six seasons with Krasnodar, it is
with the national team that he admits to
having had his keenest emotions. And, at
32, he intends to experience a few more.
“Pulling on that jersey has always been
a dream of mine – first chasing it and then
savouring it afterwards,” Kabore said. “As
Continued on Page 14>
2018 CAF Award ceremony that saw
Mohamed Salah win the best African
player prize. I was also part of the
commentary team for the 2019 Africa
Cup of Nations staged in Egypt. These
experiences make me more confident
to continue working in a variety of
fields.”
2019 could hardly have been better for
the young Egyptian, as she scored 12
times in 12 games to become Stoke’s
top scorer. “Just playing in England
would’ve been a great first step in the
career I aspire for, but becoming my
team and the league’s top scorer is
huge and will motivate me to keep
working hard.”
“I also hope to capitalise on these
accomplishments and experiences and
pass them to the other players in
Egypt. Hard work over a long period
will bring us success, and I hope my
team-mates and I can realise the
ultimate feat of getting Egypt to the
FIFA Women’s World Cup.”
Birthday to remember
Even though Essam’s 21st birthday
came while she was in quarantine, she
still had cause to celebrate. “I wasn’t
expecting anything on the day as I was
isolated in my hotel room. I thought
I’d celebrate it with the family when
all this is over, especially since they
sent me some birthday cards.
“However, I heard a knock on my door
and when I opened it, I saw a group of
employees carrying a cake in the shape
of a football pitch. There was also a
gift of training equipment to use in the
room. I was so happy that I don’t think
I’ll ever forget that experience.”
The Egyptian Queen
Asked about her nickname and an
Instagram photo she shared of herself
posing with a large outdoor
chessboard, Essam explained: “Mo
Salah and I moved to England in the
same year – we even signed for
Liverpool and Stoke during the same
month.
“After Liverpool’s Mo chant became
very popular, the Stoke fans started a
similar one for me that goes, ‘Oh
Sarah, the Egyptian queen’. They
considered me the female version of
Mo, which is great. Nothing beats
being called ‘the Egyptian queen’.”
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