Features
Selling one’s country
There’s an Akan proverb that translates to mean “when an insect bites you, it is already in your cloth”. A similar one in Ewe says “it’s the snake in your home that betrays you and hands you over to the foreign snake”. For an outsider to invade your territory, the betrayal comes from within.
The very first time I encountered Chinese, it was sometime in 1971 when I was on an excursion to the Tema Harbour with schoolmates. A ship had docked at the port and there were hordes of these Orientals milling all over a huge vessel. We were allowed aboard the ship to interact with the Chinese sailors and take a tour of the vessel. Let me confess that we could not differentiate one Chinese from the other; they looked like they were all born of the same parents.
They had slant eyes that seemed to squint all the time, round faces and strands of hair that seemed to stand on their scalp. Their skin looked a shade more yellow than the American Peace Corps volunteers that taught us in school and some British that I had known prior. It was on this ship that I first saw oranges in red, green, blue and red colours, and frozen.
I later got to understand these Orientals better from the novels of James Clavels. I know the story of the Japanese colonisation of China and the heroics of Chairman Mao Dze Dung who revolutionised the country. I know also of the Dynasties that ruled this vast country long before Christ. One thing I have never understood is the Chinese invasion of Tibet, no matter what their motivation was. Tibet was then a peaceful, spiritualised mountain nation governed by a Dalai Lama. The people were largely vegetarian. Then the Chinese invaded the place and feasted on any living animal in sight.
In the past two decades or so, the Chinese started coming to Ghana. We normally saw them at construction sites, textile and steel factories and also as crew on fishing trawlers. A few Koreans, Filipinos and Japanese were also visible occasionally. Then the torrent of Chinese pouring in became alarming to some of us. Chinese Restaurants sprang up in Accra, Tema and other big towns. Chinese herbal clinics opened businesses. Others had ideas of going into mining.
With the connivance of prominent Ghanaians, chiefs and some political actors these Chinese obtained licences and concessions to go into our forests to prospect and mine gold. Many, if not all of them, were into the illegal sector christened Galamsey. Cocoa trees were felled to give way to mining. Mercury, a rather toxic chemical used in the process was released into rivers and other water bodies, thus polluting the environment to the extent that aquatic life has been destroyed.
Foodstuffs from those areas now have cyanide and mercury contamination higher than the tolerable levels for human consumption. The rivers are now more than muddy waters from an avalanche of mudslide from monsoon rains. How they manage to take the gold away is anybody’s guess. They arrive at our ports of entry with barely a duffel bag over their shoulders and before you know it, they have excavators all over our forest floor, turning our rich, fertile agricultural soil upside down.
It is heartwarming to learn that the Minister of the sector, Mr. Samuel Abu Jinapor, has asked mining by the small scale operators to be put on hold. Good as that sounds, we must begin to find a way to reverse the pollution of our water bodies. These Galamsey operators must first be made to bear the cost of cleansing these rivers of the pollutants. The pollution of any river must be classified a felony, especially since the very existence of the people in the catchment areas depends on the water resource. The Presidency must lend utmost support to Mr. Jinapor in this regard.
I will not be surprised if pressure has already started mounting on the President to allow the Galamsey business to continue. Should people die because others want to make money at all costs? South Africa’s gold reserves have depleted by over 60 per cent. I hope Ghana is not racing to go down the same path.
What the Chinese do to our land attracts the death penalty in their country. They dare not degrade the Chinese environment, so why do they do that here? The answer is simple: we have allowed them to. They have friends high up in the Immigration Service. They have friends high up in government. They have collaborators high up in the Security Services. Simply put, they have become untouchable. Some have become kingpins in their own right. A military detachment was seen in news video, camped at a Galamsey site giving safe conduct to these Chinese activities.
The chiefs in the affected areas are complicit; they cannot pretend not to know what is going on in their backyard. They have been paid to acquiesce. The Chinese Leader is right when he says his citizens do not know their way around and it is only a local who could lead the way. How very profound and true.
Now, there is something new and more frightening. China has begun to export cocoa. While destroying our cocoa farms, the Chinese had the presence of mind to take some cocoa seeds back home to ‘experiment’ with. Voila, they have succeeded in cultivating the crop and are exporting it. Not only are they cultivating cocoa; they are using very innovative methods in the drying process. The good thing with the Chinese is that when they set their minds on something, they go at it with a passion. It is as if their very lives depend on it.
I have read claims by a cocoa farmer described as an expert in the produce, that China’s foray into cocoa production is no threat to Ghana. I wish this expert had adduced empirical scientific evidence of his assertion. The Chinese export earned that country $3,600 per tonne while Ghana’s own fetches $2,400 for the same weight. Does it mean China has a better bargaining power or their cocoa beans are of a more superior quality? Which is the case, if I may ask the experts.
It took Malaysia only five palm seedlings from Ghana to become the largest world producer and exporter of palm fruits and palm oil. See? I recollect some years ago when driving from Adawso in Akuapem towards Koforidua, there was a large palm plantation around Kwamoso that stretched for kilometres on end. Today, the place is bare, thanks to the African appetite for frothy palm-wine.
And how has the Malaysian success spurred us on to do better or even improve on our production, if the expert is to be believed? Let us tickle ourselves and enjoy the laughter while other countries are busy taking their chances. We pride ourselves as the first in gaining independence and other firsts, only to be overtaken by the realities of the times.
I hear China has started bagging gari for export. Give China between five and 10 years from today; that country will be the biggest exporter of cocoa beans on the world market. This is not my wish. It is the sad truth. Can our COCOBOD drive the agenda for drying cocoa beans the way the Chinese have done? I have my doubt. Our cocoa farmers are so impoverished they cannot afford the Chinese method of drying their beans.
What the biggest cocoa farmer earns from the crop in a whole season comes nowhere near one month’s salary of the Chief Executive of the Ghana COCOBOD who, in all probability, does not own a cocoa farm. Is it any wonder the youth are not interested in farming? As a cocoa farmer myself, I am aware of the situation on the ground. I know the type of cocoa that was on our soil before Tetteh Quarshie brought the Fernando Po variety. I know the variety that came from Brazil and I know the hybrid.
If what is in the news about Ghana’s cocoa beans having high mercury content is true, I am afraid this country is done for. I call on our scientists in the standards sector to collaborate with our Ministry of Agriculture to investigate this as quickly as possible so that Ghana’s record of having the best cocoa beans is not dented. If it turns out to be true, we can only blame our leaders, not the Chinese.
As for the Chinese, they must be free to undertake legitimate business wherever they want. However, they must not be allowed to do what they cannot do in their own country. After all, we all belong to one human race and every land or space must provide genuine opportunity for everyone, irrespective of race, colour or creed.
Once upon a time, Ghana was the leading producer of cocoa in the world. Today, Ghana is chasing Cote D’Ivoire which produces more than double our annual production. Very soon, we are likely to chase both China and Cote D’Ivoire for a place on the table. How would our leaders in the Cocoa Sector explain that?
By Dr. Akofa K. Segbefia
Writer’s email address:
akofa45@yahoo.com
In the pursuit of nurturing healthy, fulfilling relationships, we often focus on understanding our partners, communicating effectively, and navigating conflicts. However, a crucial element is frequently overlooked: self-awareness.
Understanding ourselves is the foundation upon which successful relationships are built. Imagine being in a relationship where every conversation feels like a minefield, and every disagreement leaves you wondering if you are truly understood.
Now, picture a relationship where you feel seen, heard, and valued—not because your partner has magically figured you out, but because you have taken the time to understand yourself. This is the transformative power of self-awareness in relationships.
What is Self-Awareness?
Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is the capacity to reflect on ourselves, acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses, and taking responsibility for our actions. With self-awareness, we are better equipped to manage our emotions, respond to situations more thoughtfully, and make informed decisions that align with our values.
How Self-Awareness Impacts Relationships
- Improved Communication:
When we are aware of our own emotions and needs, we can communicate them more effectively to our partner, reducing misunderstandings and conflicts. By recognising our tendency to become defensive in certain situations, we can take a step back, breathe, and respond more constructively. - Increased Empathy:
Self-awareness allows us to recognise and manage our own biases, enabling us to be more empathetic and understanding towards our partner’s perspective. By acknowledging our own emotional triggers, we can respond to our partner’s needs with more compassion. - Healthier Boundaries:
By understanding our own needs and limits, we can establish and maintain healthy boundaries, preventing codependency and resentment. Self-awareness helps us communicate our boundaries clearly and respectfully, fostering mutual respect in relationships. - Personal Growth:
Self-awareness fosters personal growth, enabling us to work on our flaws and become a better partner, friend, and individual. As we develop self-awareness, we become more resilient, adaptable, and better equipped to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and purpose.
Cultivating Self-Awareness
- Mindfulness and Reflection:
Regular mindfulness practices and self-reflection can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Schedule time for reflection, whether through journaling, meditating, or simply taking a quiet walk in nature. - Journaling:
Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can provide valuable insights into your motivations and behaviors. Reflect on your journal entries to identify patterns, gain clarity, and develop a greater understanding of yourself. - Seek Feedback:
Ask trusted friends, family, or a therapist at Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC) for feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth and self-awareness. - Embrace Imperfection:
Recognise that nobody is perfect, and it is okay to make mistakes. This mindset allows you to approach self-awareness with kindness and compassion, fostering a more positive and growth-oriented relationship with yourself.
As we cultivate self-awareness, we embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and transformation. By understanding ourselves, we can build stronger, more resilient relationships, and live a more authentic, meaningful life. Self-awareness is not a destination; it is a continuous process of learning, growing, and evolving—and one that requires patience, kindness, and compassion towards ourselves and others.
In conclusion, self-awareness is the cornerstone of healthy, fulfilling relationships. By understanding ourselves, we can communicate more effectively, empathise with our partner, and cultivate personal growth. As we strive to build stronger relationships, let us prioritise self-awareness, embracing our true selves, and loving ourselves for who we are. By doing so, we will become better partners, friends, and individuals—capable of building more profound, lasting connections with others, and living a life that truly reflects our values and aspirations.
To be continued …
By Counselor Prince Offei
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ONE profession which society has battled with is prostitution. Prostitutes can’t be stopped in their tracks. Soldiers have tried, policemen have doubled and redoubled to keep them off the streets. But the prostitute is like the cockroach. Sack it from the kitchen and it moves to the toilet where it can enjoy self-contained facilities. Drive it away from there and it scurries to the bedroom to become the landlord.
Prostitutes can live on land and sea. They are mysterious and defy gravity, a feat—even birds of the air have not successfully accomplished. They can change form and appear as bar girls; they dress like students; act like scholars and speak Oxford English. They are also like the chameleon but once their clients can identify them, no problem. The Sikaman prostitute normally enters the business as an amateur, having been introduced by a professional or a caricature of a pimp. But she learns quickly.
In a short time, she is able to take any size without wailing, unless of course the size is “international”.
Prostitutes are of every tribe, height, weight, colour and notoriety. These days, some are well-schooled with diplomas and degrees. They enter into the world’s oldest profession due to factors ranging from poverty to nymphomania.
Most prostitutes in Sikaman are often not sophisticated in outlook and modus operandi. Often, they easily betray themselves with their gaudy appearance, over-painted faces, skimpy skirts, cigarette in hand, walking with that kind of bottom-wriggling gait that can instantly turn a devoted clergyman into a he-goat.
In developed countries like Spain, prostitution takes different forms. Apart from those you can grab from the cheap bars and ghettos for single night stands and those managed by shameless pimps, there are some who are organised by well-established syndicates and specialised agencies.
If you need a girl for the night, you only have to telephone an agency, describing the kind and breed you want—race, height, size, colour (chocolate?), rudeness, smoking type, strip-teasing, shyness, whatever.
You give your address and the girl on time. You pay by the hour and cost per hour can make you feel dizzy without falling down. You’ll still be steady for the showdown.
The girls have been trained to use tricks and communication skills to make their clients spend several hours without really doing anything. A typical prostitute will make you drink, chat at length (they are very knowledgeable), cook for you, bathe you and breast-feed you. That takes some three hours and you have to pay if you still want her services.
If you grow a bit wiser and protest, and insist vehemently that you are tired of being babied and want some real action now, she’ll do another hour of strip-tease and belly-dance by which time you’re either bored or charged to bursting point.
And finally you will do it but never without a condom. And the kind of condom she’ll give you can’t be torn by any knife around the globe, not even okapi. Before you’re finally through, you’ve got some five-hour helluva bill to pay. Next time round, you’ll think twice and go in for the cheap-side who’ll even allow you to do it without condoms if you are tired of living and want to die of AIDS.
In Sikaman, apart from those who operate from hotels and bars, some operate in private homes. The clients come and line-up, each with a hard-on. When the queue is not moving fast some begin to sweat because they have a very low sexual boiling point. If they are not ushered in quickly they can cause problems.
They’ll start grunting and stamping and can disrupt the peaceful and orderly procedure. As it were, such clients need priority attention so that they do not cause a riot and disturb the public peace.
Incidentally, prostitutes don’t like dealing with such clients because they are bad business. They have no biblical patience at all. They rush too much, and that was why a prostitute once asked a client whether he was a Russian because he rushed a bit too much and messed up things.
Prostitution in Sikaman has taken a new turn. Girls as little as sixteen are selling their bodies sometimes with the passive connivance of their mothers. When the girls go out at 9.00 p.m. and return at 3.00 a.m, their mothers let them in without asking questions. Next day, the house is properly fed from the proceeds of the night adventure and everybody is happy and nobody talks. If you talk, no breakfast for you tomorrow morning.
The police are doing quite a job trying to get them off the streets but they go and return just like the cockroach. Many of them are surely agents for the transmission of the AIDS virus because they permit clients to forgo the condom. They only have to pay extra for the “raw” service.
Now, the idea of legalising prostitution has been a very controversial one. If prostitutes can hardly be gotten off the streets since they are defiant and are now very many, why not legalise the profession, issue licences (not to kids), offer them health services and health education, teach them how to protect themselves and others from sexually transmitted diseases and then compel them to pay tax?
That would force children out of the trade because the legal operators will themselves force out the kids who will be competing with them. They would even assist the police to kick out the 15 and 16 year olds.
If a bad phenomenon cannot be wiped out, a way must be found to make it less and less harmless, so that while it doesn’t benefit society in any grand way, it does not also harm it.
Any suggestions?
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