The first funerals have been held for those who died in last week's avalanche at a hotel in central Italy.
Crowds paid their respects to Alessandro Giancaterino, 42, and Gabriele D'Angelo, 31, waiters at the Hotel Rigopiano.
Another body, of a woman, was found on Tuesday, bringing the death toll to 16.
But rescuers continue to search for 13 people still missing, and say there is a chance survivors could be trapped in the hotel bar.
They are trying to punch their way in through the 80cm (2ft 7in) concrete wall, in the hope that some could still be alive in air pockets there.
"We are working on the theory that the avalanche did not necessarily hit or destroy every room and that we haven't yet reached the heart of the structure," said a spokesman for the fire service, Luca Cari.
He said rescuers were working around the clock at the remains of the hotel - which in 2009 hosted Hollywood star George Clooney.
So far, 11 people have been found alive following the 120,000-ton avalanche - which police have calculated had the equivalent impact of the hotel being hit by 4,000 fully loaded trucks travelling at over 100 km/h (60 mph).
On Tuesday, first victims were laid to rest - chief waiter Giancaterino in the next village of Farindola, while fellow waiter D'Angelo was being buried a few kilometres away.
Giancaterino was in the hotel at the time as he had offered to stay for a double shift on 18 January to cover a fellow worker who was struggling to get in through the snow drifts.
"He was a great hard worker. He was very professional," said his brother, Massimiliano Giancaterino. "This is the memory that I want to keep of my brother, beyond obviously the private ones that I keep in my heart."
At the hotel, rescuers have been able to excavate a path into the hotel which allows access for heavy machinery, said firefighters' spokesman Mr Cari.
They will now try to create a shaft through the thick concrete wall dividing the bar from the kitchen, in the hope that there could be an air pocket - and possible survivors - in the space behind.
As the search continued, a rescue team was sent from the base co-ordinating the avalanche operation to help in an unrelated helicopter crash nearby, public broadcaster Rai reported.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella has called for a "united effort and common front in the face of disaster".
But further concerns have been raised about the emergency services' handling of the disaster and authorities have opened an official inquiry into the circumstances of the tragedy.
Details have emerged of an emergency phone call between a restaurant owner and a senior official at the local authority co-ordinating rescues in Pescara.
At 18:20 local time (19:20 GMT), after the hotel's collapse, Quintino Marcello tells the official that his chef, Giampiero Parete, who was staying at the Rigopiano, contacted him on Whatsapp five minutes before.
"The Rigopiano hotel has collapsed, there's nothing left. He's there with his wife and little children. Act immediately. Go up there!"
But La Repubblica says the official insists the hotel is fine and that the fire brigade checked it out during the morning. It was a barn containing sheep at a farm that had collapsed, the official says.
Mr Parete had already contacted emergency services some time before, La Repubblica says, but they checked with the hotel owner, Bruno di Tommaso, who told them he was unaware of an avalanche - though crucially he was not at the scene.
Earlier, relatives of the missing complained that the snow-bound hotel should have been evacuated before the avalanche hit late on Wednesday afternoon. One relative, Alessio Feniello, accused authorities of wrongly telling him that his son, Stefano, had been rescued.
It has also emerged that the hotel owner sent the authorities an email asking for help a few hours before the avalanche, saying that guests were "terrorised by the earthquakes and have decided to stay out in the open".
Prosecutor are also examining whether environmental risks were properly assessed during the construction and subsequent renovation of the hotel.
Tourism, Travel, Hospitality, Conservation: News,Stories And Experiences From Allover The World
Friday, 27 January 2017
Ghana Attracting Tourists Than Nigeria
Tourism should be an easy win for emerging market (EM) and frontier market (FM) economies with weakened currencies, and cheap jet fuel; an opportunity that we think is being missed.
When in the last decade did Iraq do better from tourism than Russia or India?
Why did you go on holiday to France, Spain or the US this year, rather than Russia? Why is Nigeria the second-worst out of 43 countries in Africa at attracting tourist receipts, while nearby Ghana is 25 times more successful? How is it even possible that as recently as 2010, Iraq was benefiting more from tourism than India, Russia, Nigeria or Bangladesh?
In analysing tourism’s winners and losers, from the developed markets (DMs) to beyond FMs, we suspect one common factor linking those who do poorly is the visa regime. Many EM or FM countries with difficult visa regimes collect less than 1% of GDP in tourism receipts, even as IMF data show their citizens spend far more than that abroad.
By contrast, easy visa regimes over the past 20 years have helped tourism numbers rise from 14,000 a year in Laos to not far off 14,000 a day, while tourism revenue in Cambodia has soared from US$100m to $3bn a year. In Georgia, tourism brought in 4% of GDP in 2005 and revenue reached 14% of GDP in 2015. Easy visa regimes from Rwanda to Cape Verde, and from Singapore to Thailand, help to drive GDP growth and make citizens better off. Nigeria, by contrast, runs a significant tourism deficit, which we estimate at around $4-5bn; the highly expensive visas do not come close to covering that gap and per-capita GDP is suffering.
Global media may have strangely overlooked the breakthrough visa-free reciprocity deal between Russia and Laos earlier this month, but it does highlight two very differing views on visa policy. To Laos, cancelling visa requirements for Russians is another hook with which to attract tourists from a richer country. It hopes to use tourism, as neighbouring Thailand has done, to lift growth. For Russia, which can expect no significant economic boom from Lao tourists, the deal is another example of visa reciprocity; if a country treats Russia with respect by allowing easy visa access, it will get Russia’s respect in return. But if EU countries and the US do not treat Russia with respect, by imposing complex visa requirements on Russians, then Russia will likely impose similarly complicated visa produces on EU and US citizens. We have heard similar views from India and Nigeria.
This is an understandable emotional reaction – and woe betide the economist who thinks money is more important than feelings. Yet other strongly patriotic countries, such as Croatia or Turkey, have not equated national pride with visa access. They instead prioritise tourist cash. While high-income countries can afford to forsake tourism revenue, lower-income countries can gain a great deal by encouraging tourism. We estimate Russia is missing out on at least $6bn of tourist receipts (and as much as $18bn if it could get tourists as interested in St Petersburg and Russia as they are in Paris and France), as well as the jobs and much-needed GDP diversification that a larger tourism sector would bring.
There are of course more important drivers of tourism than just visas. We also show the negative impact of political instability and terrorism. Tourism receipts as a percentage of GDP are down by more than 33% in Morocco since 2007 (despite no terrorist-related fatalities in five years), by over 50% (3% of GDP) in Tunisia and by nearly 75% (5% of GDP) in Egypt. The rebound potential if politics improve is very substantial. Since the end of the conflict in Sri Lanka, tourism receipts have quadrupled from 0.8% of GDP in 2009 to 3.6% of GDP in 2015. Meanwhile, it surprises us that the EM that underperforms the most on tourism is Brazil – and neither hosting the World Cup nor the Olympics is likely to improve that much in the future. But for others, tourism is an opportunity that we think more governments should grasp with both hands.
When in the last decade did Iraq do better from tourism than Russia or India?
Why did you go on holiday to France, Spain or the US this year, rather than Russia? Why is Nigeria the second-worst out of 43 countries in Africa at attracting tourist receipts, while nearby Ghana is 25 times more successful? How is it even possible that as recently as 2010, Iraq was benefiting more from tourism than India, Russia, Nigeria or Bangladesh?
In analysing tourism’s winners and losers, from the developed markets (DMs) to beyond FMs, we suspect one common factor linking those who do poorly is the visa regime. Many EM or FM countries with difficult visa regimes collect less than 1% of GDP in tourism receipts, even as IMF data show their citizens spend far more than that abroad.
By contrast, easy visa regimes over the past 20 years have helped tourism numbers rise from 14,000 a year in Laos to not far off 14,000 a day, while tourism revenue in Cambodia has soared from US$100m to $3bn a year. In Georgia, tourism brought in 4% of GDP in 2005 and revenue reached 14% of GDP in 2015. Easy visa regimes from Rwanda to Cape Verde, and from Singapore to Thailand, help to drive GDP growth and make citizens better off. Nigeria, by contrast, runs a significant tourism deficit, which we estimate at around $4-5bn; the highly expensive visas do not come close to covering that gap and per-capita GDP is suffering.
Global media may have strangely overlooked the breakthrough visa-free reciprocity deal between Russia and Laos earlier this month, but it does highlight two very differing views on visa policy. To Laos, cancelling visa requirements for Russians is another hook with which to attract tourists from a richer country. It hopes to use tourism, as neighbouring Thailand has done, to lift growth. For Russia, which can expect no significant economic boom from Lao tourists, the deal is another example of visa reciprocity; if a country treats Russia with respect by allowing easy visa access, it will get Russia’s respect in return. But if EU countries and the US do not treat Russia with respect, by imposing complex visa requirements on Russians, then Russia will likely impose similarly complicated visa produces on EU and US citizens. We have heard similar views from India and Nigeria.
This is an understandable emotional reaction – and woe betide the economist who thinks money is more important than feelings. Yet other strongly patriotic countries, such as Croatia or Turkey, have not equated national pride with visa access. They instead prioritise tourist cash. While high-income countries can afford to forsake tourism revenue, lower-income countries can gain a great deal by encouraging tourism. We estimate Russia is missing out on at least $6bn of tourist receipts (and as much as $18bn if it could get tourists as interested in St Petersburg and Russia as they are in Paris and France), as well as the jobs and much-needed GDP diversification that a larger tourism sector would bring.
There are of course more important drivers of tourism than just visas. We also show the negative impact of political instability and terrorism. Tourism receipts as a percentage of GDP are down by more than 33% in Morocco since 2007 (despite no terrorist-related fatalities in five years), by over 50% (3% of GDP) in Tunisia and by nearly 75% (5% of GDP) in Egypt. The rebound potential if politics improve is very substantial. Since the end of the conflict in Sri Lanka, tourism receipts have quadrupled from 0.8% of GDP in 2009 to 3.6% of GDP in 2015. Meanwhile, it surprises us that the EM that underperforms the most on tourism is Brazil – and neither hosting the World Cup nor the Olympics is likely to improve that much in the future. But for others, tourism is an opportunity that we think more governments should grasp with both hands.
AFRICA: Hotel Development On The Rise
The number of planned hotel rooms for 2016 in Africa has soared to 64,000 in 365 hotels, up almost 30% on the previous year, according to new figures from the annual W Hospitality Group Hotel Chain Development Pipeline Survey.
The increase is largely down to strong growth in sub-Saharan Africa, which is up 42.1% on 2015 and is significantly outstripping North Africa which achieved only a modest 7.5% pipeline increase this year.
A major shake-up in the rankings by country saw Angola, never before listed among the top 10, push Egypt out of second place, due to a major deal signed by AccorHotels in Angola.
The W Hospitality Group survey is published ahead of the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), which is organized by Bench Events. The conference attracts all the major international hotel investors in Africa and is being held for the first time in Lomé, Togo on 21-22 June. A second AHIF will take place in Kigali, Rwanda on 4-6 October.
Trevor Ward, W Hospitality Group Managing Director, said: “The evidence from our survey is clear – investors remain confident about the future of the hospitality industry on the continent … Africa remains resilient.”
The IMF forecasts that economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa will increase by 4% this year and 4.7% in 2017, up from 3.5% in 2015. These forecasts are down from the 5-6% increase enjoyed over the past decade. However, Africa’s regional growth forecasts are way ahead those of mature economies, such as Europe, the USA and Japan.
Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of Bench Events, said: “Africa is still on the up. For business, trade and capital investment, the continent remains an attractive proposition, leading to continuing demand for accommodation and other hospitality services.”
The latest W Hospitality Group Hotel Chain Development Pipeline Survey is the eighth annual pipeline survey, widely recognized as the most authoritative source on hotel industry growth in Africa, particularly on revealing data on international chains signing new deals across the continent.
The 2016 survey provides a full picture of hotel development across the continent – 36 hotel chains and 86 brands with more than 64,000 rooms in 365 hotels.
In comparison to figures from the inaugural survey in 2009, it is clear that hotel development in Africa is making rapid advancements. In 2009, there were 19 international and regional hotel chains contributing, with a pipeline of 144 hotels and just under 30,000 rooms.
In the latest pipeline survey report, Nigeria and Angola dominate. In July last year, AccorHotels signed with AAA Activos LDA for the management of 50 hotels in Angola with around 6,200 rooms.
Across the continent, the north-south divide on hotel development continues. In 2011, the number of pipeline rooms in the five countries of North Africa was about 25 per cent higher than that in sub-Saharan Africa. Today, the number of pipeline rooms in North Africa is less than half the number in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Trevor Ward explained: “There are two reasons why development activity in North Africa is now somewhat subdued. Firstly, the markets there are more mature and have already seen much development, so there are fewer opportunities for new hotels. Secondly, there is the political turmoil – in Libya, which has seen a 40% drop in the pipeline, and also Egypt, parts of which are experiencing drastic reductions in the number of tourists.”
Nigeria remains the country with the most rooms in the pipeline, up 20% on 2015. Nigeria and Angola account for 17,782 rooms between them, almost 30% of the total pipeline.
Trevor Ward added: “If all those involved – the investors, chains, consultants and lenders – can bring these deals to fruition, the pipeline of the future will result in the much-needed expansion of Africa’s hotel industry.”
The 2016 survey will be discussed in detail at AHIF in Lomé in June. Matthew Weihs, said: “The 30% increase in the hotel development pipeline is astonishing and clearly demonstrates that Africa still has fantastic potential for further growth.”
The increase is largely down to strong growth in sub-Saharan Africa, which is up 42.1% on 2015 and is significantly outstripping North Africa which achieved only a modest 7.5% pipeline increase this year.
A major shake-up in the rankings by country saw Angola, never before listed among the top 10, push Egypt out of second place, due to a major deal signed by AccorHotels in Angola.
The W Hospitality Group survey is published ahead of the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), which is organized by Bench Events. The conference attracts all the major international hotel investors in Africa and is being held for the first time in Lomé, Togo on 21-22 June. A second AHIF will take place in Kigali, Rwanda on 4-6 October.
Trevor Ward, W Hospitality Group Managing Director, said: “The evidence from our survey is clear – investors remain confident about the future of the hospitality industry on the continent … Africa remains resilient.”
The IMF forecasts that economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa will increase by 4% this year and 4.7% in 2017, up from 3.5% in 2015. These forecasts are down from the 5-6% increase enjoyed over the past decade. However, Africa’s regional growth forecasts are way ahead those of mature economies, such as Europe, the USA and Japan.
Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of Bench Events, said: “Africa is still on the up. For business, trade and capital investment, the continent remains an attractive proposition, leading to continuing demand for accommodation and other hospitality services.”
The latest W Hospitality Group Hotel Chain Development Pipeline Survey is the eighth annual pipeline survey, widely recognized as the most authoritative source on hotel industry growth in Africa, particularly on revealing data on international chains signing new deals across the continent.
The 2016 survey provides a full picture of hotel development across the continent – 36 hotel chains and 86 brands with more than 64,000 rooms in 365 hotels.
In comparison to figures from the inaugural survey in 2009, it is clear that hotel development in Africa is making rapid advancements. In 2009, there were 19 international and regional hotel chains contributing, with a pipeline of 144 hotels and just under 30,000 rooms.
In the latest pipeline survey report, Nigeria and Angola dominate. In July last year, AccorHotels signed with AAA Activos LDA for the management of 50 hotels in Angola with around 6,200 rooms.
Across the continent, the north-south divide on hotel development continues. In 2011, the number of pipeline rooms in the five countries of North Africa was about 25 per cent higher than that in sub-Saharan Africa. Today, the number of pipeline rooms in North Africa is less than half the number in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Trevor Ward explained: “There are two reasons why development activity in North Africa is now somewhat subdued. Firstly, the markets there are more mature and have already seen much development, so there are fewer opportunities for new hotels. Secondly, there is the political turmoil – in Libya, which has seen a 40% drop in the pipeline, and also Egypt, parts of which are experiencing drastic reductions in the number of tourists.”
Nigeria remains the country with the most rooms in the pipeline, up 20% on 2015. Nigeria and Angola account for 17,782 rooms between them, almost 30% of the total pipeline.
Trevor Ward added: “If all those involved – the investors, chains, consultants and lenders – can bring these deals to fruition, the pipeline of the future will result in the much-needed expansion of Africa’s hotel industry.”
The 2016 survey will be discussed in detail at AHIF in Lomé in June. Matthew Weihs, said: “The 30% increase in the hotel development pipeline is astonishing and clearly demonstrates that Africa still has fantastic potential for further growth.”
THAILAND: A Country Of Pleasant People
Thailand is famously known as the Land of Smiles, and its residents pride themselves on being gracious and accommodating. As a collective culture, Thai people are taught to be more concerned with what’s best for the group rather than what suits them personally. Perhaps this is why “no” is always tempered with a “yes”. “Not yes” seems to imply in one small phrase their regret at not being able to consent to what you’ve asked. In fact, when mai chai is proffered, it’s often with downcast eyes and a small bow called a wai or a hand waved in front of the face apologetically.
According to Rachawit Photiyarach, intercultural communications professor at Bangkok's Kasetsart University, “Thais avoid confrontation because they live in a group-orientated culture. Showing emotion is considered immature or rude, so many people value those who can handle situations calmly.”
He added, “Thai society is highly conservative and traditional. It’s a culture where showing gratification and emotion is controlled by strict social norms. This is why showing public affection between couples is considered rude here.”
As opposed to many European countries where people simply say what they mean, in Thai communication, the listener must know a bit about the culture to fully understand what is being said. Thai people tend to dance around confrontations, emotional situations and anything unpleasant; when a Thai friend says yes to you, they may really be saying no – if you know how to interpret their ever-gracious words.
“People don’t often tell you no. Maybe among very old friends, but with others, with work colleagues or family members, Thai people always say yes and may go on to explain later why they can’t do something,” Photiyarach explained. “A Thai person will say yes because social etiquette dictates that they do.”
For example, a Thai employee will rarely refuse their boss anything. If a manager asks, “Can you work on Saturday?” the Thai employee might answer, “Yes, but my parents are coming for dinner at my home, and I need to collect my children from their sports activities in the afternoon.” The response is implicit, and it’s up to the listener to construe the meaning.
Thais strongly believe in maintaining good relationships; in a developing country where life can be hard, people stick together and try to help each other. Harmonious relationships take precedence over being right or wrong, over personal agreement or dissent, even over professional progress. Thais avoid saying no to keep the peace.
Apologies are uncommon in Thai. To say you are sorry is to admit you made a mistake and to lose face, which is one of the worst things that can happen to you in many Asian societies. In a collective culture, the opinion of the group is everything. Thais prefer not to lose face in the first place by keeping a pleasant disposition at all times. If they do make a mistake, they may never acknowledge it.
“It is difficult to regain your face when you have done something stupid or inappropriate in the eyes of many Thais. This is in contrast to Western culture, where people are likely to forgive you if you are honest,” Photiyarach said.
During my years in Thailand, I’ve learned to be more accommodating, to think of ways that I can say “yes”. When I first arrived here for a copywriting job, I was the only person to speak up at meetings or contradict my boss. I thought this was how I was supposed to show that I was a useful member of the team. However, I must not have made a good impression, as a Thai co-worker later described me as “having war in my heart”.
I had to realize that saying yes to someone else – or not telling them no – did not mean that I was a pushover; perhaps it just meant that I wanted to help. I began to admire the way that Thai people often said yes, even at the cost of their own wants and needs.
According to Rachawit Photiyarach, intercultural communications professor at Bangkok's Kasetsart University, “Thais avoid confrontation because they live in a group-orientated culture. Showing emotion is considered immature or rude, so many people value those who can handle situations calmly.”
He added, “Thai society is highly conservative and traditional. It’s a culture where showing gratification and emotion is controlled by strict social norms. This is why showing public affection between couples is considered rude here.”
As opposed to many European countries where people simply say what they mean, in Thai communication, the listener must know a bit about the culture to fully understand what is being said. Thai people tend to dance around confrontations, emotional situations and anything unpleasant; when a Thai friend says yes to you, they may really be saying no – if you know how to interpret their ever-gracious words.
“People don’t often tell you no. Maybe among very old friends, but with others, with work colleagues or family members, Thai people always say yes and may go on to explain later why they can’t do something,” Photiyarach explained. “A Thai person will say yes because social etiquette dictates that they do.”
For example, a Thai employee will rarely refuse their boss anything. If a manager asks, “Can you work on Saturday?” the Thai employee might answer, “Yes, but my parents are coming for dinner at my home, and I need to collect my children from their sports activities in the afternoon.” The response is implicit, and it’s up to the listener to construe the meaning.
Thais strongly believe in maintaining good relationships; in a developing country where life can be hard, people stick together and try to help each other. Harmonious relationships take precedence over being right or wrong, over personal agreement or dissent, even over professional progress. Thais avoid saying no to keep the peace.
Apologies are uncommon in Thai. To say you are sorry is to admit you made a mistake and to lose face, which is one of the worst things that can happen to you in many Asian societies. In a collective culture, the opinion of the group is everything. Thais prefer not to lose face in the first place by keeping a pleasant disposition at all times. If they do make a mistake, they may never acknowledge it.
“It is difficult to regain your face when you have done something stupid or inappropriate in the eyes of many Thais. This is in contrast to Western culture, where people are likely to forgive you if you are honest,” Photiyarach said.
During my years in Thailand, I’ve learned to be more accommodating, to think of ways that I can say “yes”. When I first arrived here for a copywriting job, I was the only person to speak up at meetings or contradict my boss. I thought this was how I was supposed to show that I was a useful member of the team. However, I must not have made a good impression, as a Thai co-worker later described me as “having war in my heart”.
I had to realize that saying yes to someone else – or not telling them no – did not mean that I was a pushover; perhaps it just meant that I wanted to help. I began to admire the way that Thai people often said yes, even at the cost of their own wants and needs.
ETHIOPIA: Ethiopia Tourism To Grow Threefold In Five Years
Ethiopia aims to triple its number of foreign visitors to more than 2.5 million by 2020, making tourism a pillar of one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
Buoyed by huge spending on infrastructure and an expansion of its services and agricultural sectors, Addis Ababa expects annual economic growth of around 11 percent for the next five years.
Though lacking the palm-fringed beaches and safari trails of neighboring Kenya and Tanzania, the Horn of Africa country boasts magnificent terrain and a fascinating imperial past.
Visitor numbers have risen at least 10 percent a year for the past decade. More than 750,000 tourists came during fiscal year 2014/2015, generating $2.9 billion for the economy, said Culture and Tourism Minister Amin Abdulkadir.
“There is a lot of demand in terms of bookings and investment plans. Our target is to receive more than 2.5 million in five years’ time,” he told Reuters in an interview.
“This sector will generate foreign direct investment and foreign currency and create job opportunities, as well as contribute to image-building.”
Hilton Worldwide Holdings signed a management deal on Wednesday to open its first hotel in Ethiopia in more than four decades, while sub-Saharan Africa’s first Marriott-branded serviced apartments have also been unveiled in the capital.
Sheraton, Radisson and Golden Tulip are among a handful of global groups already operating, and U.S. chain Best Western International Inc, France’s AccorHotels and Ramada say they are also working on new projects.
“We are a peaceful and stable country. Plus, we have the right policies and strategies,” said Amin. “It will not be long before we reach the levels of our neighbors.”
Buoyed by huge spending on infrastructure and an expansion of its services and agricultural sectors, Addis Ababa expects annual economic growth of around 11 percent for the next five years.
Though lacking the palm-fringed beaches and safari trails of neighboring Kenya and Tanzania, the Horn of Africa country boasts magnificent terrain and a fascinating imperial past.
Visitor numbers have risen at least 10 percent a year for the past decade. More than 750,000 tourists came during fiscal year 2014/2015, generating $2.9 billion for the economy, said Culture and Tourism Minister Amin Abdulkadir.
“There is a lot of demand in terms of bookings and investment plans. Our target is to receive more than 2.5 million in five years’ time,” he told Reuters in an interview.
“This sector will generate foreign direct investment and foreign currency and create job opportunities, as well as contribute to image-building.”
Hilton Worldwide Holdings signed a management deal on Wednesday to open its first hotel in Ethiopia in more than four decades, while sub-Saharan Africa’s first Marriott-branded serviced apartments have also been unveiled in the capital.
Sheraton, Radisson and Golden Tulip are among a handful of global groups already operating, and U.S. chain Best Western International Inc, France’s AccorHotels and Ramada say they are also working on new projects.
“We are a peaceful and stable country. Plus, we have the right policies and strategies,” said Amin. “It will not be long before we reach the levels of our neighbors.”
Tourism In Africa Rises But Still Lacking
For the third year running, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has published the Africa Tourism Monitor, an annual report on the tourism industry in Africa. This year’s report, a joint publication by the AfDB, New York University’s Africa House and the Africa Travel Association (ATA), is entitled “Unlocking Africa’s Tourism Potential”.
The report offers a comprehensive overview of the tourism sector in Africa, focusing on both opportunities and challenges. It features facts, figures and contributions from key tourism players across the continent, with tour operators, experts and industry representatives shedding light on key issues via a series of case studies.
One of the key findings of the report, as indicated in its introduction, is that the tourism sector in Africa is growing. In 2014, a total of 65.3 million international tourists visited the continent – around 200,000 more than in 2013. Back in 1990, Africa welcomed just 17.4 million visitors from abroad. The sector has therefore quadrupled in size in less than 15 years.
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Africa’s strong performance in 2014 (up 4%) makes it one of the world’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, second only to Southeast Asia (up 6%).
The report offers a comprehensive overview of the tourism sector in Africa, focusing on both opportunities and challenges. It features facts, figures and contributions from key tourism players across the continent, with tour operators, experts and industry representatives shedding light on key issues via a series of case studies.
One of the key findings of the report, as indicated in its introduction, is that the tourism sector in Africa is growing. In 2014, a total of 65.3 million international tourists visited the continent – around 200,000 more than in 2013. Back in 1990, Africa welcomed just 17.4 million visitors from abroad. The sector has therefore quadrupled in size in less than 15 years.
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Africa’s strong performance in 2014 (up 4%) makes it one of the world’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, second only to Southeast Asia (up 6%).
Taxi Driver Fined For Refusing To Carry Guide Dog
Abandi Kassim turned away Charles Bloch, 22, and his dog in Leicester in July 2016.
The driver apologised outside Leicester Magistrates' Court and claimed he was "confused" at the time.
Mr Bloch said he hoped the fine would send a message to others that disability laws must be respected.
He had booked the minicab for himself and his assistance dog, Carlo, and his girlfriend filmed Kassim saying he would not take them with the dog because of his religion.
Mr Bloch, who is registered blind, explained the law but Kassim drove away.
Kassim, 44, of Fountains Avenue, Leicester, pleaded guilty to refusing to convey a guide dog, an offence under the Equality Act 2010, and was fined £340 plus £200 costs and a £50 victim surcharge.
Magistrates told him taxi drivers had a duty to know the law.
Kassim said: "I was confused because I was scared of the dog and at the time I did not know the difference between the guide dog and the normal dog.
"It was a mistake, it was a lack of training, I think there should be a course about dogs. I know about them now and would take them now."
Mr Bloch said: "I know a lot of people with assistance dogs worry about this happening so hopefully this shows them the law is on their side.
"It also shows that if they have a problem, there is something they can do about it."
This is the second time Mr Bloch has taken action against a taxi firm, with him bringing a similar case in November.
ADT Taxis, which employed Mr Kassim, said the driver had been dismissed as soon as they became aware of the incident.
Under the Equality Act 2010, it is illegal for a private hire vehicle to refuse to take a disabled person because they have an assistance dog, nor can they charge more.
Anyone found guilty of an offence under the act is liable to a fine.
Assistance dogs are defined as dogs trained to guide someone who is blind, deaf, epileptic or suffers a condition which affects mobility.
Drivers can apply to a licensing authority for exemption from carrying assistance dogs, but only on medical grounds.
SENEGAL: France Lifts Travel Warning On Casamance
France has scrapped a travel advisory of more than 25 years which urged its citizens not to travel to Senegal's coastal region of Casamance.
The decision has spurred hopes that Casamance's beaches will attract French holiday-makers, giving the tourist industry a boost.
Improved security meant that French citizens could now visit the region, France's embassy in Senegal said.
Casamance had been hit by unrest linked to a separatist group since 1982.
Once home to a thriving tourist industry, Casamance is separated from the capital, Dakar, by The Gambia.
It is home to numerous ethnic groups, including many Christians, while northern areas are dominated by three, largely Muslim communities.
Violence has waned since a 2014 ceasefire agreed between the government and separatist rebels.
There has been a push to clear land mines from the region over the last few years.
The decision has spurred hopes that Casamance's beaches will attract French holiday-makers, giving the tourist industry a boost.
Improved security meant that French citizens could now visit the region, France's embassy in Senegal said.
Casamance had been hit by unrest linked to a separatist group since 1982.
Once home to a thriving tourist industry, Casamance is separated from the capital, Dakar, by The Gambia.
It is home to numerous ethnic groups, including many Christians, while northern areas are dominated by three, largely Muslim communities.
Violence has waned since a 2014 ceasefire agreed between the government and separatist rebels.
There has been a push to clear land mines from the region over the last few years.
NIGERIA: South African Airways Introduces Flights To Abuja
South African Airways (SAA) has introduced a second entry point to Nigeria in its quest to enable trade and unlock mobility, which will considerably add to business travel options in the West African region.
Adding a second gateway in Nigeria to SAA’s existing daily service to Lagos materially strengthens SAA’s position in West Africa. The addition of Abuja to SAA’s network follows closely on the successful introduction of the Accra, Ghana to Washington Dulles, USA route, as a West African platform in August 2015. SAA launched flights between Accra, Ghana and Washington DC in North America.
The introduction of the Accra to Washington route has seen a steady growth in the number of passengers using this route and has performed in line with expectations. This has provided SAA with the confidence to invest further and enhance its footprint in West Africa.
“Nigeria is one of the fastest growing air travel markets in Sub-Saharan Africa and will be well served with our additional services to Abuja. Introducing Abuja as a second entry point in Nigeria will add more travel options, especially for the business community, and will enhance our footprint on the continent,” says Sylvain Bosc, SAA Chief Commercial Officer.
Abuja, built in the 1980s, became Nigeria’s capital in December 1991, and is known for being one of the few purpose-built capital cities in Africa. With Abuja, SAA will be serving eight destinations in Central and West Africa, with flights from its Johannesburg hub to Lagos (Nigeria); Abidjan (Ivory Coast); Cotonou (Benin); Accra (Ghana); Douala (Cameroon), Dakar (Senegal) and Libreville (Gabon) already forming part of the extensive regional route network.
The three weekly flights will operate non-stop between Johannesburg and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja aboard modern Airbus 330-200s, offering SAA Business class comfort and luxury, with the latest in In-flight entertainment.
The first flight is scheduled to depart O.R Tambo International Airport on 26 January 2016. Flights are open for sale on all SAA’s distribution channels.
Adding a second gateway in Nigeria to SAA’s existing daily service to Lagos materially strengthens SAA’s position in West Africa. The addition of Abuja to SAA’s network follows closely on the successful introduction of the Accra, Ghana to Washington Dulles, USA route, as a West African platform in August 2015. SAA launched flights between Accra, Ghana and Washington DC in North America.
The introduction of the Accra to Washington route has seen a steady growth in the number of passengers using this route and has performed in line with expectations. This has provided SAA with the confidence to invest further and enhance its footprint in West Africa.
“Nigeria is one of the fastest growing air travel markets in Sub-Saharan Africa and will be well served with our additional services to Abuja. Introducing Abuja as a second entry point in Nigeria will add more travel options, especially for the business community, and will enhance our footprint on the continent,” says Sylvain Bosc, SAA Chief Commercial Officer.
Abuja, built in the 1980s, became Nigeria’s capital in December 1991, and is known for being one of the few purpose-built capital cities in Africa. With Abuja, SAA will be serving eight destinations in Central and West Africa, with flights from its Johannesburg hub to Lagos (Nigeria); Abidjan (Ivory Coast); Cotonou (Benin); Accra (Ghana); Douala (Cameroon), Dakar (Senegal) and Libreville (Gabon) already forming part of the extensive regional route network.
The three weekly flights will operate non-stop between Johannesburg and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja aboard modern Airbus 330-200s, offering SAA Business class comfort and luxury, with the latest in In-flight entertainment.
The first flight is scheduled to depart O.R Tambo International Airport on 26 January 2016. Flights are open for sale on all SAA’s distribution channels.
SOUTH AFRICA: Fly Blue Crane To Restructure
Fly Blue Crane became the latest South African airline to hit turbulence when it filed for a voluntary application for business rescue late last year to facilitate the rehabilitation of the company. By opting for business rescue, the company was taking a step many of its peers around the world had taken in order to re-engineer and strengthen their businesses, the company said last November.
The move came shortly after Fly Blue Crane launched flights to Mthatha, Eastern Cape. Naude said as a result of the business rescue application the company would operate under the supervision of a business rescue practitioner, as the restructuring of the company takes place.
He said Fly Blue Crane, which has flights to Cape Town, Kimberley, Mthatha and Bloemfontein, was evaluating its routes as part of its re-engineering programme, “including the fine-tuning of its schedules to some destinations during low seasons - such as the end-of-year break when business customers in some markets are away on holiday.
“This occasionally means pulling back on the number of flights to such destinations during these periods, with normal service resuming as soon as the core travelling base is back,” said Naude. The company started flying in September 2015, entering a market that had seen the demise of other low-cost airlines such as Nationwide Arlines, 1Time and Velvet Sky, among others.
“I am very confident about the airline’s future, and have every reason to believe that it is a matter of time before Fly Blue Crane overcomes its challenges. Yes, there is lots of hard work ahead, but all is well and the airline is operating as usual and servicing its routes. The management and staff are here and working very hard, and looking very motivated and determined,” he said.
Naude said he had met all of Fly Blue Crane’s major business partners, and they had pledged their support. “It is for these reasons that I’ve no doubt that the business rescue process will provide the company with the opportunity it needs to restructure its affairs, enter into and conclude its discussions with potential key strategic partners, and negotiate workable payment arrangements with creditors,” he said.
Naude said, while the business rescue process was not yet as widely practised in South Africa as it was globally, it was on the increase and allowed for the restructuring of companies to the benefit of all stakeholders, including creditors and employees. “As unfortunate as it is, it is normal for companies to find themselves in distress due to any number of circumstances which can be overcome given time, support and diligent management.
In that event, the business rescue process provides companies with the requisite space to re-organise and restructure their operations, while saving jobs and continuing to trade normally,” he said.
CHINA: Hainan Airlines To Buy 13 Percent Of Virgin Australia For A$159 million
The owner of Hainan Airlines will buy 13 percent of Virgin Australia for A$159 million ($114 million) and plans to raise that stake to about 20 percent over time, the Australian carrier said on Tuesday. Brisbane-based Virgin Australia already counts Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines and Etihad Airways PJSC as major shareholders.
Branson 'a great believer in Virgin Australia'
Virgin Australia, with net debt of A$2.1 billion, has been reviewing its capital requirements and shares in the airline jumped in Sydney as it announced the fresh funds from HNA. The Chinese group’s toehold in Virgin Australia continues a multi-billion dollar spree that has scooped up everything from airlines to hotels and supermarkets.
In an alliance with HNA, Virgin Australia plans to start direct flights to and from China next year and fly some of those visitors on its network at home. Qantas Airways currently dominates that market. Last year, more than 1 million Chinese travellers visited Australia and by 2020, the number will climb to 1.5 million, Virgin said.
“We carry almost no traffic from China on our domestic network,” Chief Executive Officer John Borghetti said on a call with reporters on Tuesday. “This will change the dynamics. The way that China is growing, direct services in and out of China are very important.”
Virgin Australia stock rose as much as 7.1 percent to 30 Australian cents, matching HNA’s purchase price for its new shares. That’s still 46 percent lower than the price in April last year.
Two decades ago, HNA founder Chen walked the aisle of his startup Hainan Airlines’s single airplane serving refreshments. Last month, his conglomerate agreed to buy Swiss airline-catering company Gategroup Holding AG for about $1.4 billion. And yesterday, Air France said it’s in talks to sell half of its catering unit Servair to HNA.
HNA said in a statement Tuesday it will appoint one person to Virgin Australia’s board. The group will support the outcomes of Virgin Australia’s capital review, the Australian airline said in its statement.
That assessment won’t be completed “for a little while”, Borghetti said. Morgan Stanley previously estimated Virgin Australia needs a further A$700 million in financing, while Citigroup has said the requirement might be as high as A$853 million.
“It’s hard to say whether this is a big enough capital injection to change their fortunes,” said Daniel Mueller, an analyst at Forager Funds Management in Sydney.
The deal with HNA, which needs Australian competition and Chinese regulatory approvals, also complicates a potential shakeup among Virgin Australia’s largest investors after Air New Zealand in March said it may sell its 26 percent stake.
That stoked speculation that Singapore Air would snap up the stake. Billionaire Richard Branson, whose Virgin Group owns around 10 percent of Virgin Australia, said last week that Air New Zealand’s holding had attracted several potential buyers.
Singapore Air supported the HNA deal, while Air New Zealand wasn’t consulted because it no longer has a seat on Virgin Australia’s board, Borghetti said in the interview. Representatives for Air New Zealand and Singapore Air declined to comment on the deal.
Major shareholders will see their shareholdings diluted. Air New Zealand’s stake will fall to 22.5 percent from 25.9 percent; Singapore Air’s will decline to 20.1 percent from 23.1 percent; and Etihad’s will decrease to 21.8 percent from 25.1 percent, a Virgin spokeswoman said. Virgin Group goes to 8.7 percent from 10 percent.
SOUTH AFRICA: SA Airlink Passengers Spend Night On benches At OR Tambo International Airport
This is after their flight from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape on Tuesday night was rerouted due to weather conditions that were deemed too dangerous for landing.
The flight had left Joburg at 5pm and reached Mthatha at about 8pm when it was forced to turn around. About 40 passengers were on board.
According to several passengers who spoke to The Star, they were told that they would spend the night in Joburg, and shouldn’t panic because the airline would arrange accommodation for them.
After waiting for an hour at OR Tambo, SA Airlink staffers told them that the airline would not provide accommodation.
The flight attendant told them to be ready for the first (Wednesday) morning flight, departing at 6am.
Some of the passengers managed to call relatives or friends to fetch them. However, those who couldn’t make alternative arrangements were forced to sleep on the benches in the waiting areas.
“I am so disgusted with this pathetic service. You would think a company as big as SA Airlink would have a better crisis management mechanism. They do not value customers at all,” said Relebogile Tobia. “Some of us cannot afford to pay accommodation for the night,” she added.
Among the stranded were two pregnant women who were visibly exhausted from walking around the airport.
“SA Airlink is such a useless company. I am so mad at them. I cannot believe I am going to sleep on the chairs when I am this pregnant. I have already spent R3 000 on a ticket,” said Onesimo Maneli.
“I can’t say I will stop using them because they are the only airline doing the Mthatha to Joburg route. We have to fix this.”
Another heavily pregnant woman, Minah Yalezo, said she was so exhausted she could barely stand. “I am just out of words,SA Airlink is so poor, in fact it’s sickening,” she said.
Lucky Magingxa said he had been travelling with SA Express between Joburg and Mthatha for more than 10 years, and that during that time, the airline had provided accommodation when a flight was cancelled due to bad weather.
“They used to book accommodation for us when such situations happened. What is wrong now? We need answers because if we let it go, they get into the habit of taking customers for granted,” he said.
THAILAND: Passengers Stranded After Tigerair Enters Dispute With Airport Authorities
More than 1700 travellers have been affected with around a dozen flights cancelled since Wednesday.
"Tigerair Australia sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused by this decision and we are working to resume flights as soon as possible," the airline said in a statement.
Bali is one of the most popular destination for Australians. More than one million visit Indonesia each year.
At least 350 passengers are stranded in Bali awaiting flights home.
Virgin Australia, which owns Tigerair, was scheduled to operate two flights from Bali to bring as many affected customers as possible, according to a statement from Tigerair.
The issue arose after Indonesian government asked the budget airline to comply with new licensing conditions on Tuesday.
Rob Sharp, Tigerair's chief executive officer, said the airline had temporary approval under charter flight arrangement from Indonesia to operate between Australian cities and Bali until March 25, 2017, which has been ongoing for the past eight months.
"This involves selling tickets in Australia between Australia and Bali. Under the existing agreement, we are not able to sell tickets in Indonesia and we are fully compliant with this," he said.
The director-general of Air Transport in Indonesia had accused the airline of breaching its agreement and selling tickets in Indonesia.
Some of the travelers took to social media to blast the airline.
On her Facebook page, Melbourne resident Megan Deal said other airlines were either fully booked or charging ridiculous amounts.
"Our long-awaited family holiday has been ruined and I have to tell my devastated kids in the morning we are no longer going to Bali today!!" she said.
"Needless to say we will NEVER fly with your company again and will inform others not to do so either!!"
SOUTH AFRICA: Pearl Modiadie Holidays In Bali
Posing in a series of sexy shots, some with Bali locals, Modiadie showcased her beautiful vacation. She showed off some of Bali’s hot spots including Gili Trawangan Island and Ayana Resort. Her outfits were casual and playful, something that goes well with a beachy location like Bali. Here are her top 5 looks.
Pearl Modiadie is known for her wise fashion decisions, and this black bikini showcases her in all her beauty. She wore a black bikini top that she paired with a polka dot bikini bottom. She completes the look with a black string choker. The Gili Islands are a group of 3 tiny islands comprising of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air in Indonesia, near the coast of northwest Lombok Island. At Gili Trawangan, the largest island, where Modiadie was on a vacation, a sunken ship sits at Wreck Point near Mentigi Beach. The location is popular for its sandy beaches, palm trees and coral reefs.
Modiadie keeps it simple with this paisley print maxi dress that she pairs well with a sling purse. The pink ensemble hides Modiadie’s toned figure and showcases her demure side. Tanah Lot, behind Pearl, is a rock formation off the Indonesian island of Bali. It is home to the pilgrimage temple Pura Tanah Lot, a popular tourist and cultural icon for photography.
In this look, Modiadie turns heads with a floral playsuit as she enjoys the views of Bali from Rock Bar. The venue is on top distinctive rock formations along Jimbaran’s pristine sunset coast. It is known as one of the most popular sunset, cocktail and entertainment venues. Not only is it a place for the young crowd to let loose, it is a perfect place to watch the sunset.
One of the best looks of Modiadie's vacation is her in a pink bikini with tassels. Modiadie looks classy as she poses in front of the ocean with her fingers in a peace sign.
Tanjung Benoa, like many other beach side destinations in Bali, used to be a fishing village and an old dock. It is now home to hotels, resorts and water sports operators. It is located 15 kilometres from the international airport.
Modiadie wears this chic peach mini dress as she enjoys the scenic views of the ocean while on cruise at Benoa Harbour. She pairs her dress with a strappy flat sandals. This type of outfit is perfect for cruises and can easily be swapped for a bikini look in seconds. Bali Hai Cruises is Indonesia’s leading cruises that have exciting day cruises to Lembongan Island with fun-filled activities for the whole family.
Emirates Introduces Environmentally Friendly Blankets
Air passengers can now look forward to using blankets with a conscience in their flights. Emirates airline has introduced environmentally friendly blankets in their flights.
Each blanket is made from 28 recycled plastic bottles. The bottles are recycled into plastic chips before being turned into yarn, creating a polar fleece material. The fine thread is then woven into soft blankets.
By the end of 2019, the blankets would have rescued 88 million plastic bottles from landfills– equivalent to the weight of 44 A380 aircraft.
The blankets are made using ecoTHREAD™ patented technology.
The blankets were designed in partnership with Buzz, the world’s leading inflight product specialists.
Other Eco-friendly projects run by the airline include on board recycling aluminum cans, plastic and glass bottles, and clean paper products such as newspapers, magazines and cardboard cartons where possible.
In addition, the manufacturing process of using recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) reduces energy emissions by 70 percent.
Each blanket is made from 28 recycled plastic bottles. The bottles are recycled into plastic chips before being turned into yarn, creating a polar fleece material. The fine thread is then woven into soft blankets.
By the end of 2019, the blankets would have rescued 88 million plastic bottles from landfills– equivalent to the weight of 44 A380 aircraft.
The blankets are made using ecoTHREAD™ patented technology.
The blankets were designed in partnership with Buzz, the world’s leading inflight product specialists.
Other Eco-friendly projects run by the airline include on board recycling aluminum cans, plastic and glass bottles, and clean paper products such as newspapers, magazines and cardboard cartons where possible.
In addition, the manufacturing process of using recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) reduces energy emissions by 70 percent.
Terrorism Will Affect Tourism In 2017, Wait And See
Beside the sluggish economy, there was threats of terrorism to worry about, making South Africans uneasy to travel to destinations that may be unsafe or had recent terrorism threats according to thought leader Group Managing Director of Flight Centre, Andrew Stark.
“Terrorism is having an impact on South African travellers, with an increasing number eschewing destinations like France, Egypt, Kenya and Turkey which have been hit by terror attacks,” Stark said.
Not much will change for South African travel this year.
All is not doom and gloom though, Stark added that general travel in South Africa will be cheaper and that there are still budget friendly destinations that South Africans will flock towards when taking vacations.
He pointed out that South Africans, both ordinary and corporate citizens, were cutting back on travel and will continue to do so in 2017.
“Local and closer-to-home travel is booming compared with international travel, and corporates are cutting back on travel where possible. This means that some have swapped – first to business class, business to premium economy class and from economy class to a conference call.
“However despite challenging times, corporates are always looking for new ways to increase or generate new business and this generally always means venturing into new territory, which can have a positive effect on travel. Nonetheless, the struggling economy and its impact on the currency had a huge impact on travel in 2016, and will continue to do so in 2017,” he said.
While the more expensive destinations are likely to take a knock in 2017, value-for-money destinations like Zanzibar, Thailand and Mauritius will continue to draw South Africans. Local travel will also remain robust.
“Travel is resilient, and new markets, mediums and customer types will open up in 2017. Customers will continue to dictate the ways in which they prefer to be interacted with, which will push new boundaries,” he added.
“Terrorism is having an impact on South African travellers, with an increasing number eschewing destinations like France, Egypt, Kenya and Turkey which have been hit by terror attacks,” Stark said.
Not much will change for South African travel this year.
All is not doom and gloom though, Stark added that general travel in South Africa will be cheaper and that there are still budget friendly destinations that South Africans will flock towards when taking vacations.
He pointed out that South Africans, both ordinary and corporate citizens, were cutting back on travel and will continue to do so in 2017.
“Local and closer-to-home travel is booming compared with international travel, and corporates are cutting back on travel where possible. This means that some have swapped – first to business class, business to premium economy class and from economy class to a conference call.
“However despite challenging times, corporates are always looking for new ways to increase or generate new business and this generally always means venturing into new territory, which can have a positive effect on travel. Nonetheless, the struggling economy and its impact on the currency had a huge impact on travel in 2016, and will continue to do so in 2017,” he said.
While the more expensive destinations are likely to take a knock in 2017, value-for-money destinations like Zanzibar, Thailand and Mauritius will continue to draw South Africans. Local travel will also remain robust.
“Travel is resilient, and new markets, mediums and customer types will open up in 2017. Customers will continue to dictate the ways in which they prefer to be interacted with, which will push new boundaries,” he added.
SOUTH AFRICA: Comair Prospering
In a statement issued on Friday, it said earnings per share should be between 125 percent and 145 percent higher year-on-year for the six months to December.
This places earnings per share at between 40 and 44c a share.
Headline earnings per share, a key measure of profitability, are expected to be between 213 percent and 233 percent better at between 41 and 44c a share.
In the six month to December 2015, the company – which will report its results on Valentine’s Day, earned 18c in earnings per share, while headline earnings per share came in at 13.1c.
Earlier this month, the low-cost airline manager said earnings and headline earnings per share are expected to be at least 20 percent higher in the 6 months to December.
In the year-ago comparative period, Comair reported pre-tax profit of R382 million, which translated into earnings per share of 18c. However, this was substantially below the 2015 figure of 37.6c, mostly due to the weak rand.
In the 6 months to December 2016 headline earnings per share came in at 13.1c, compared with 37.6c in the 2015 period.
Comair, which in 2016 was involved in a strike, a tussle over its licence and a challenge from a competitor on its foreign ownership, explains that its gains are mostly due to the strengthening of the rand against the dollar.
This resulted in the reversal of unrealised translation losses on the dollar-denominated aircraft loan amounting to R98 million.
In addition, it said, all loss making open oil hedges had matured by December 31 and no further hedges were entered into.
Oil has currently stabilised around $54 a barrel.
Comair notes it cannot currently be more specific as to its figures, but will publish a more detailed statement “in due course”. It did not indicate when its results will be published, but JSE rules require its figures are out by the end of March.
ANGOLA: Zika Virus Attacks Angola
The two cases may not yet be cause for concern, but they're an ominous reminder of how ripe the region could be for a widespread Zika outbreak. "Up until two months ago, we didn't have any detected case, but, now, we have two cases of Zika," Health Minister José Luis Gomes Sambo said on Wednesday. "We have to take preventable measures, especially in the anti-vectorial fight against the mosquitoes," he added. One case was reportedly a French citizen on travel, while the other is a 14 year-old in the Angolan capital Luanda, World Health Organization (WHO) regional emergency director Socé Fall told Foreign Policy.
Even though it's just two cases, health officials aren't taking any chances. Fall said the WHO is working closely with Angola's government to monitor the patient and investigate any new suspected Zika cases. After West Africa's Ebola outbreak in 2014, international health experts are on edge. "We didn't wait to react," Fall said. And for good reason. Luanda, with a dense population and poor infrastructure, is a ripe breeding ground for disease outbreaks. From there, the virus could spread like wildfire if un-contained.
This Zika strain seems to be much more virulent than ones we've seen in the past. A study in September 2016 found that over 2 billion people in Asia and Africa could be at risk of contracting the Zika virus in Asia and Africa, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and southeast Asia. Angola has already learned that lesson the hard way.
On Tuesday, the ministry of health said 106 people have died in a cholera outbreak since December. And a yellow fever epidemic killed 400 three months ago. (The yellow fever outbreak jarred the international community so badly that the WHO led a campaign to vaccinate over 12 million people in Angola and neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo last year).
And disease isn't the only struggle Angola's beleaguered health sector faces. It also has steep funding problems. In March last year, Angola gutted public spending after laggard global oil prices stifled its economic growth (Angola, one of Africa's largest petro-states, relies on oil for 95 percent of its government revenue). The spending cuts targeted vital government services like water sanitation, sewage, and health, which likely exacerbated the disease outbreaks. In September 2016, the WHO declared an end to the global Zika emergency, though emphasized the virus remained a threat.
Before the new Angola cases, 69 countries and territories around the world reported cases of the Zika virus since the outbreak started in 2015, the WHO says, with most reported cases in Central and South America. Before Angola's announcement, only two other African countries, Cape Verde and Guinea-Bissau, registered Zika infections during the latest outbreak. Each had only one case. Zika isn't new to the African continent.
The virus was first discovered in Uganda in 1947. The virus, spread primarily through mosquitoes, can cause flu-like symptoms in people who contract the disease. It can cause birth defects for pregnant women infected.
INDIA: SpiceJet To Buy 205 New Boeing Planes
A joint statement by the two companies Friday said the planes booked at the end of 2016 include 100 new Boeing 737 MAX 8s, 42 MAXs, 13 additional 737 MAXs as well as purchase rights for 50 additional planes.
SpiceJet is India's fourth-largest airline by number of passengers carried with a market share of 12.9 percent. It flies more than 300 daily flights to 41 Indian and international destinations.
"The Boeing 737 class of aircraft has been the backbone of our fleet since SpiceJet began (in 2005), with its high reliability, low operation economies and comfort," said Ajay Singh, Spicejet chairman and managing director.
Ray Conner, a top Boeing official, said the economics of the 737 MAXs would allow SpiceJet to profitably open new markets, expand connectively within India and beyond.
India's booming economy and growing middle class have helped to make it the world's fastest-growing air travel market. The number of passengers grew 20 percent last year, and airlines are announcing flights to new destinations in the country almost every week. Domestic air passengers are expected to jump from the current 70 million to 300 million by 2022, and to 500 million by 2027.
GAMBIA: Adama Barrow Returns To The Gambia Amid Tight Security
Barrow was scheduled to arrive in Gambia at 4 pm (16:00 GMT), coalition spokesman Halifa Sallah said. A larger ceremony will take place at a later date, he said.
Gambians eagerly await Barrow, who has promised to reverse many of the authoritarian policies of former leader Yahya Jammeh, who was accused of imprisoning, torturing and killing his political opponents. Barrow defeated Jammeh in December elections, but the veteran leader did not want to cede power.
Barrow was sworn into office on Jan. 19 at the Gambian Embassy in neighboring Senegal because of security threats as Jammeh clung to power.
Jammeh finally left Gambia last weekend, bowing to international pressure that included a regional military force, ending a more than 22-year rule. The West African troops were poised to oust Jammeh if diplomatic talks failed.
There are currently 2 500 of the Ecowas troops still in Gambia — in the capital, Banjul, as well as at key crossing points between Gambia and Senegal and at the port and airport, according to Sweden's UN Ambassador Olof Skoog, the current UN Security Council president.
Gambia's new president has asked the troops to stay for six months to provide security, said Mohamed Ibn Chambas, special representative of the UN secretary-general and head of the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel.
"Many factors will be taken into account in determining the length of a mission," Chambas told reporters on Thursday in Senegal, where Barrow has been staying while awaiting his return.
Gambia, with a population of nearly 1.9 million people, has become a shining example in West Africa, a region striving to establish stable democratic changes of power. The world watched as Gambians showed they wanted change, supporting a coalition of opposition parties whose aim was to oust Jammeh and put the country on a path toward greater democracy.
Jammeh's supporters wept as he boarded a plane for exile. He went to Equatorial Guinea, taking luxury cars and other riches amassed during his presidency and accompanied by trusted family and security guards.
When Jammeh left, the streets in Banjul exploded in celebration, with music blaring from speakers, people dancing in front of restaurants, cheering and honking car horns.
Barrow's months ahead will be crucial to building a country that can put a climate of fear behind it and work toward reconciliation. He has vowed to work toward greater freedoms and reforms to the security forces and the constitution.
Barrow has named a female vice president, Fatoumata Tambajang, who has called for Jammeh's prosecution for human rights abuses. But it emerged that she might be above the constitutional age limit for the position, bringing Barrow to say he will put together a vetting committee for further appointments.
Sallah, the spokesman, said a human rights commission will be set up and the new government will create a freedom of information act.
"We expect a lot of things from Barrow," said 26-year-old Modou Fall, who, like many others, wore a #Gambiahasdecided T-shirt to show support for the new president. "We want the forces to stay so that we can reform our army ... and we need development in this country."
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