Put Your Foot Down

Nelson Mandela celebrates his 90th Birthday!

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (The Sole of Africa) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 09:57:58 GMT

Some friends of the Sole of Africa have started an E-Birthday card for Nelson Mandela

Join in and send Nelson Mandela a personal birthday message!

We are attempting to set a new world record for the most signed e-Birthday Card.

Send to your friends and family, but join in!!

http://www.mandela90.com

The What, Who, Why of Cluster Bombs

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (The Sole of Africa) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:17:34 GMT

What are cluster bombs? Cluster munitions are large weapons which are deployed from the air and from the ground and release dozens or hundreds of smaller submunitions. Submunitions released by air-dropped cluster bombs are most often called "bomblets," while those delivered from the ground by artillery or rockets are usually referred to as "grenades."

What's the problem with this weapon? Air-dropped or ground-launched, they cause two major humanitarian problems and risks to civilians. First, their widespread dispersal means they cannot distinguish between military targets and civilians so the humanitarian impact can be extreme, especially when the weapon is used in or near populated areas. Many submunitions fail to detonate on impact and become de facto antipersonnel mines killing and maiming people long after the conflict has ended. These duds are more lethal than antipersonnel mines; incidents involving submunition duds are much more likely to cause death than injury.

Who has used cluster munitions? At least 14 countries have used cluster munitions: Eritrea, Ethiopia, France,Israel, Morocco, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Russia (USSR), Saudi Arabia, Sudan,Tajikistan, UK, US, and FR Yugoslavia. A small number of non-state armed groups have used the weapon (such as Hezbollah in Lebanon in 2006). Billions of submunitions are stockpiled by some 76 countries. A total of 34 states are known to have produced over 210 different types cluster munitions. More than two dozen countries have been affected by the use of cluster munitions includingAfghanistan, Albania, Angola, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cambodia,Chad, Croatia, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Grenada, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Laos,Lebanon, Montenegro, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Syria,Tajikistan, Uganda, and Vietnam, as well as Chechnya, Falkland/Malvinas, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Western Sahara.

Why is a ban on cluster munitions necessary? Simply put, cluster munitions kill and injure too many civilians. The weapon caused more civilian casualties in Iraq in 2003 and Kosovo in 1999 than any other weapon system. Cluster munitions stand out as the weapon that poses the gravest dangers to civilians since antipersonnel mines, which were banned in 1997. Yet there is currently no provision in international law to specifically address problems caused by cluster munitions. Israel's massive use of the weapon in Lebanon in August 2006 resulted in more than 200 civilian casualties in the year following the ceasefire and served as the catalyst that has propelled governments to attempt to secure a legally-binding international instrument tackling cluster munitions in 2008.

UK to cease deployment of cluster bombs

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (The Sole of Africa) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 08:22:59 GMT

UK to cease deployment of cluster bombs

By Aislinn Simpson

Last Updated: 3:54AM BST 31/05/2008

Britain has been given eight years in which to destroy its cluster bomb stocks, although it will have stop stop using them immediately under a deal being thrashed out in Dublin this week.

Britain and others among the 110 countries involved in negotiations have successfully resisted attempts to block nations' ability to fight alongside American troops armed with cluster bombs.

America has taken no part in the negotiations and will continue to use the weaponry.

The final cost of destroying our Armed Forces' stocks of the helicopter-mounted M73 and artillery-launched M85 cluster bombs is not yet known, but destroying another cluster bomb system, the more indiscriminate M26, cost £30 million.

The cost will be boosted by a clause requiring signatories to clear and destroy remnants of cluster bombs in areas under their juristiction or control - for Britain this will entail a major clearance project in southern Iraq.

The convention was formally adopted in Dublin yesterday but it is understood that the Ministry of Defence will continue negotiations over a number of other weapons which anti-cluster bomb campaigners want banned.

Non-Governmental Organisations have fought for years to see cluster bombs, which are predominantly used in countries including Cambodia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Lebanon, banned because unexploded munitions have maimed thousands of civilians.

Britain's negotiating team in Dublin have emphasised that both the M85 and M73 were needed to protect British troops when confronted by an enemy in armoured vehicles and their removal from theatre will leave a gap in our defences.

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

EURONEWS 100 Countries agree to banning of Cluster Bombs

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (The Sole of Africa) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 08:21:02 GMT

Dublin Sat. 31^st May 2008

More than 100 countries have formally agreed to ban the use of cluster bombs.

However, the debate now moves to the loopholes that could benefit powers such as the United States, which refused to take part in the Dublin conference.

Along with the US, China, Russia, Israel, India and Pakistan have rejected the pact.

Cluster munitions contain "bomblets" that are scattered from planes or artillery shells and detonate like mines. Opponents say they cause indiscriminate injury, often lying unexploded for years. Children are frequently the victims.

Giji Gya from the Brussels based International Security Service said: "The main actors are the United States and the UK. You also have Israel, India, Pakistan and China as the main users."

U.S. State Department spokesman Tom Casey said the elimination of cluster bombs from U.S. stockpiles would put the lives of U.S. soldiers and those of their allies at risk.

"While the United States shares the humanitarian concerns of those in Dublin, cluster munitions have demonstrated military utility," he said.

Source: Euronews
http://www.euronews.net/index.php

A letter of thanks from Julio

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (The Sole of Africa) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:12:22 GMT

Hi Marissa Julio (Centre)

I hope find well. I read the e-mail and aim very gland to know that I will do something to help-me myself, and other’s who need help from you. Aim ready do start the job, also I have start to look amputees people, and now I 4 people that lost his legs by mine. But I would like to go around at the urban place and make selection of people who real need help from you to get new proteases.

I will spend 3 days a week to walk around to make identifications of those people. And I hope I start the program soon, because I want to selection the exactly people who new legs and who will be happy if you give to him new proteases.

About my legs; aim doing amazing things, I walk well people doest discover that have not legs, aim walking like a person who have small problem with legs… people around asking what happen with because aim different now, and I have another position and expression. Aim very happy now I can walk and speak to the cell phone at the some time.

I realy change THANK YOU PEOPLE, THANK THE SOLE OF AFRICA, THANK MARISSA NEIL…!

Iam just wainting for you instruction..!

Thank you have nice day

Julio

Simply South African Concert for the Sole

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 12:37:53 GMT

South African musicians to set stage at London's Clapham Grand

Southern Fire Productions Ltd are proud to present, in association with the Mineseeker Foundation and the 'Sole of Africa' Campaign, 'Simply South African' at the Clapham Grand, London on the evening of the 8th June 2008.
Join us to celebrate the artistry and musical genius of some of South Africa's leading musicians in their different genres of music.

Joining us on stage are none other than, Arno Carstens, the biggest selling South African (SA) singer/songwriter in the rock genre. Arno made his name as frontman for the highly revered Springbok Nude Girls. As a solo artist, Arno performed at the 2007 Isle of Wight festival alongside the likes of the Rolling Stones and Snow Patrol. In 2008, Arno will perform on the same bill as The Police and Paul Weller. Great things are expected from this icon of SA music.

Letcher is another name synonymous with the South African music scene. Chris Letcher fronted cult SA band, Urban Creep before heading to the UK. He has just released his new album 'Frieze' which has received favourable reviews worldwide and he will be performing with a full band.

Nibs van der Spuy's CV has it all, for this highly acclaimed singer/songwriter and finger style guitarist has travelled the world sharing his music to every appreciating ear. His latest album, 'Beautiful Feet' has received rave reviews in every country released and Nibs has shared the stage with the likes of Ben Harper, Taj Mahal, Bonnie Raitt and folk legend, Shawn Phillips.

Hailing from Durban's north coast is Guy Buttery. Guy is blazing his name across the globe with his simply intoxicating and mesmerizing guitar play. Be it an acoustic or a sitar, Guy manages to breath life into every chord played. Despite many nominations for awards, Guy is still the youngest ever nominee for a SAMA (South African Music Awards).

Sitter brings youth and the confidence associated with many of the world's upcoming artists. With an infectious blend of Pop/Rock, these guys are destined for some great things. They are currently touring the UK and every opportunity to see them cannot be missed.

Infectious and caressing...two words that are used repeatedly to express the music of Farryl Purkiss. Farryl's debut album, recorded in collaboration with Nibs van der Spuy was nominated for a SAMA for 'Best Adult Contemporary'. He has shared a stage with Missy Higgins, Jack Johnson and Ben Lee and the best is simply yet to come. Farryl is currently touring the USA.Opening the bill at 'Simply South African' will be London based Anglo-South African band, the Free State Prophets. Playing energetic music, this band is simply continuing to grow in the competitive London music scene. Rave reviews continue to impress and the band is definitely heading in the right direction.

As a venue, the Clapham Grand is ideal. A typically English Victorian theatre, built in 1900, it brings everyone close to the action. The venue has a superb sound and lighting system, large stage and a capacity of 1000 for this event.
Tickets are priced at £13.50 per person and will be available from www.ticketweb.com from Friday the 2nd May 2008.
Doors open at 5:00pm and there will also be a selection of South African food and beverages available.
If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@southernfirefestival.com or by calling Clayton on 07806 663 909 or Allison on 07796 294 348.
For information regarding the Mineseeker Foundation and the 'Sole of Africa' Campaign, please follow one of the website links below.
We look forward to seeing you on the 8th June 2008 for what will be a memorable experience.
Regards,
Clayton and Allison

Lucie Diamond joins us !

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 16:40:56 GMT

BRITISH country star Lucie Diamond has been appointed an Ambassador for the International humanitarian organisation The Mineseeker Foundation and their Sole of Africa campaign - standing alongside such eminent Patrons as Nelson Mandela, Queen Noor of Jordan, Sir Richard Branson and movie idol Brad Pitt.

In September and October this year, Lucie will travel to South Africa and Mozambique to visit areas devastated by landmines, meeting victims - many of them young children - and the aid workers on the ground. A film crew will follow Lucie as part of major documentaries being produced for US television.

The Mineseeker Foundation has helped to develop cutting-edge mine seeking technology mounted on airships, and has offices in the UK, USA and South Africa. Dedicated to the seeking out and removal of landmines around the world, starting with Mozambique at the personal request of Nelson Mandela and his wife Graca Machel. They have launched The Sole of Africa campaign - to step in behind landmine removal and reclaim the land, to turn minefields into farmland. Sending in specialist support teams to teach the communities to sow, grow and sell their own produce, empowering people to self-help for long term solutions to the mine and famine problems. Also working with victims to provide artificial limbs, plus other practical and immediate help.

The organisation has united with other agencies including The Salvation Army, Feed the Children, Nourish the Children, Operation of Hope, Real Medicine Foundation, RainCatcher.org, Kenya Water Well Trust, International Youth Foundation, Iris Ministries and The Pacific Institute. This project has led Nelson Mandela as Patron of the Mineseeker Foundation, to make a plea to businesses and Captains of Industry to join with him, requesting: “World business leaders and statesmen to support a new technology that can hasten our quest to rid the world of landmines.”

At this time, Lucie is one of only two British Ambassadors for the charity, with successful businesswoman Penny Streeter (OBE) already on board.

Lucie said: “It is just appalling and beyond belief to think that literally every 19 minutes, someone is maimed or killed by a landmine on our planet, planted deliberately by another human being to do exactly that, in cold blood. I am told there are an estimated 100 million landmines in Africa, and Mozambique is the worst area affected."

“With all the investment in HIV/Aids, Malaria, TB and other dread disease programmes, there will be a lot more people to feed. Where will they get the land from to sustain themselves if it is full of landmines? The Mineseeker Foundation and The Sole of Africa are both lifesaving and much needed initiatives, working hand in hand with the people their work directly helps, and the agencies who make all the difference.”

“This is not just another cause to take people’s money, it is much more than that. That is why I am humbled and honoured be asked to become an Ambassador, and I gladly accept. I will do everything I possibly can in my own small way, to help raise awareness, and that is why I am going to see for myself the misery and suffering caused to innocent victims, and the good that can be done after we rid the land of these evil things.”

Lucie and her management met with Chairman and Founder of The Mineseeker Foundation, Mike Kendrick this week at his UK headquarters, to welcome her into the team. Mike has set several world records for hot air balloon and air ship pursuits, and he was the project director of all Richard Branson’s world record attempts. The pair have been friends and business partners for 20 years.

“We already have some very successful people from different walks of life as our Ambassadors and Patrons. Lucie is a hugely talented artist and she is doing brilliantly and deservedly so. As a young, energetic performer who has a growing International profile and travels consistently to the US, across UK and Europe, she has a big fan base and appeals to more and more young people all the time. We are delighted to have Lucie helping us, and I hope she will get even more involved when she sees for herself what the situation is out in Mozambique.” explained Mike.

Sole of Africa managing director Kai Von Pannier, speaking from his Durban office in South Africa, added: “We felt Lucie would make a perfect Ambassador for The Sole of Africa and the work we do at the Mineseeker Foundation, and when we spoke with her about becoming an Ambassador, it was clear she was a caring person and passionate about not just being a name on a list, genuinely wanting to make a difference. We are therefore thrilled she has accepted our invitation, and very much welcome her on board.”

Lucie Diamond shot to fame in the country music world with her debut single - featuring guitar legend Albert Lee - in January 2005, when it spent a record 10 consecutive weeks at number one in the British country chart and reached number 5 in the European chart. Four more hits followed, inc 2 consecutive number ones in the European country chart. Today her records are played on radio in up to 60 countries worldwide. In July last year, she won 3 of her 4 nominations in the annual European country music awards, including European Artist of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year (beating superstars Dolly Parton and Faith Hill to the award.) The only British artist to win, and taking home more awards than any other artist.

This year she was invited by the Country Music Association in Nashville to represent the UK at the annual CMA festival in June, and won rave reviews for her performance. Her new CD “I Wanna Be Rich” has just been released, featuring a duet with multi-Grammy winner Delbert McClinton and the talents of guitar legend Albert Lee. She has just headlined to 45,000 people in France, at the biggest country music festival in Europe.

www.myspace.com/luciediamond

www.luciediamond.com

Hello Nice People - A Message from Julio Colete

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 10:35:14 GMT

This is a message from Julio Colete who received funding raised at the Strab Music Festival held in Mozambique so that he could further his education. Julio became a landmine victim at an early age and had to change his love of football to computers. You can read his full story on our website. http://www.thesoleofafrica.org.za/Newslinkpage_2.html

In the meantime, here is a verbatim copy of his email to us !

To all the Sole of Africa Organization

Iam Julio Colete,

I want to thank you about what you have done for me!!!

Iam so happy becouse iam doing the Advacend International Dilpoma in Computer Engeenering course, and i hope that one day i will get job for save my future.

You help-me to come true my Dreams...

Thank you People,

Thank you the sole of africa

Thank, very much...!

Julio

Maputo - Mozambiquello

Getting Involved ! Landmine Rock Festival

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 10:40:41 GMT

It just never ceases to amaze me how some people can just put their mind to it and just do it ! Out of the blue came an announcement from the Landmine RockFestival that they were going to do a fund-raising concert.

The concert is part of Jessie Botha's coming of age party and she decided that she would call in some favours and contacted bands to say, that she wanted to raise money for The Sole Of Africa and would they perform for free. It didn't take long and with the help of some pals a whole event was created in 3 weeks ! Jessie's inspiration came from having attended the Strab Music Festival earlier this year in Mozambique, who also support the Sole of Africa.

http://www.myspace.com/landminerock

On Saturday 14^th July 2007 at 13:00 FIRE HAMMER Music & Moonshine Productions (Pty) Ltd presents ‘LANDMINE ROCK’ at Wolmer Events Arena, Plot 20 Dale Avenue , Akasia, Pretoria North. A Rock Festival in aid of raising funds for the Sole of Africa & Mineseeker Foundations.

For the occasion Jessie has hooked up one of the most phenomenal music line-ups that this country has to offer and all the bands and musicians performing on the day have pledged their time and talent to play for free at ‘LANDMINE ROCK! Performing on 14^th July will be: STONK, GREEACRE, ROOIBAARDT, SCICOUSTIC, MENAGE A TROIS, JACK HAMMER, SOIL 7t7, NO QUARTER, NOT MY DOG, THE ALBERT FROST TRIO and THE STRAB ALL STARS.

Thanks to everyone involved, it is really great to have you guys on board !

Kai

We announce the Lowest Bid Auction Competition ! Enter Now

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 23:52:45 GMT

Enter now ! http://find.yoursole.org - Entry is free !!!

The Sole of Africa, an initiative of the Mineseeker Foundation, whose patrons include Nelson Mandela, Sir Richard Branson and Brad Pitt, are announcing a global awareness drive highlighting the plight of landmine victims in Africa .

Landmines have infested massive tracts of land in Mozambique and elsewhere which otherwise could be used for valuable life-sustaining agriculture. Families and homes have been torn apart by the ravages of war. The Sole of Africa undertakes to eradicate these landmines and provide prosthetic limbs to the victims, together with sustainable agricultural schemes and re-establishment programmes within the communities.

Every 20 minutes a landmine kills or maims someone, usually a woman or child. There are over 70 million landmines buried beneath the surface of the earth and the Sole of Africa, in conjunction with the Mineseeker Foundation, has adopted advanced technology which allows for the identification to assist with the rapid removal of landmines across Africa , as well as returning previously unusable “unsafe” land to the people. The campaign has inspired Nelson Mandela to film an impassioned plea to help rid the world of this manmade problem. This call to action and other videos may be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/mineseeeker.

The South African property development company the eLan Group have pledged a substantial corporate ambassadorship to the Mineseeker Foundation in support the within southern Africa . The eLan Group, not only addresses sensitive environmental issues in its developments, but also has an immense social responsibility role within the industry

The partnership between the Sole of Africa and the Elan Group has resulted in the launch of a worldwide “Unique Lowest Bid” competition. The competition will unite people and charities from around the world in a fun and novel initiative that encourages a Unique Lowest Bid rather than a Highest Bid.

The bidding process is FREE and the winning prize is a luxury safari in Africa . The concept of the competition is to raise awareness for the Sole of Africa campaign and for people to “Put Their Foot Down” in support of this lifesaving charity.

Go to http://www.thesoleofafrica.org.za or http://www.mineseeker.com/ for further information.

Another Perspective

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 19:44:55 GMT

Dear All,

I know the problems in the world today seem overwhelming and insurmountable. Every day we survive economic pressures, hear about global warming, become immersed in issues at home and in the work place.

We are constantly bombarded by the media with emphasis on the bad news but very little on the good.

The problem of landmines left behind by wars seems very distant to us, as we go about our business, secure in our home and workplace. I only fully understood the tragedy after I had been amongst people personally affected by landmines.

I know it is hard to imagine your children not being safe from stepping on a landmine as they walk to school, hard to imagine trying to farm your fields around unexploded landmines or even to step in between mines to get your daily water requirements.

But this scenario is all too familiar for far too many people in the world.

Unexploded landmines render fertile land unusable which does not just impact on people, but on wildlife, the environment and ultimately a nation's economy.

You can help us ! The Sole of Africa's drive to succeed comes from you, from our Patrons to the ordinary individual, from corporate funding and to the privately funded music festivals - all are essential to The Sole of Africa. It is important to point out that your contribution is not a "hand out", but an aid to removing the problem that is preventing people from living a normal life and building a sustainable future. By helping us you are enabling them to help themselves.

In a new global drive to raise awareness we will be launching an exciting competition in the next two weeks, in which we are sure you will participate.

Today is full of possibilities and you could do something positive for us right now by simply forwarding this newsletter to a friend, by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page. The impact of your action will generate awareness of the landmine issue in our global village. You become part of the solution.

Then, take a moment and look at our videos on YouTube and Put Your Foot Down. As Salvidor Dali said "Life is too short to go unnoticed."

With peace, love and happiness
Kai Von Pannier
Managing Director: The Sole of Africa SA

We are now on You Tube !

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 20:54:13 GMT

HI everyone

We have posted some of our videos on You Tube. Included is the Put Your Foot Down promo video featuring the Mineseeker Anthem 'Put Your Foot Down"

So go to http://www.youtube.com/Mineseeker

You can donate and receive a free copy of the song by going to out website http://www.thesoleofafrica.org.za

Enjoy the videos and the music !

Donate Online Now - Get Involved

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 20:23:40 GMT

Hi everyone !

We are now able to accept donations online, so we would be grateful if you could go to our web donations page at www.thesoleofafrica.org.za

Not only can you donate, but you can recieve a free copy of our new song, "Put Your Foot Down", by South African songstress Toni Rowland.

Listen to it on the website and then downoad it from our donations page.

Thanks for all your support

Kai

MD - Sole of Africa

Audio interview w/ Oscar Pistorius, the amputee runner on the verge of making history

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 16:19:40 GMT

Dear Colleagues,

I wanted to inform you that the newest installment (Episode 16) of

TheFinalSprint.com's Podcast Show is now available and it features an

exclusive interview with Oscar Pistorius, a young South African runner

who is on the verge of becoming the first amputee to ever qualify for

the able-bodied Olympics. Unfortunately, even if he qualifies, he may

still be denied to chance to compete.

I encourage you to listen to the podcast and to please share it with

your readers and other contacts. Here is the direct link to

play/download the interview and/or subscribe to our podcast feed:

http://www.thefinalsprint.com/2007/02/podcast-16-exclusive-interview-w-oscar-pistorius-the-amputee-runner-on-the-verge-of-making-history/

In the 45-minute exclusive interview, Oscar discusses his life,

historic achievements, the controversy, how he deals with the critics

and the possibility of him redefining society's concept of human

potential.

Any and all feedback from you and/or your readers regarding the

podcast is greatly appreciated.

Thanks again and please feel free to call and/or email me if there is

anyway that I can assist you, your publication and/or organization.

Take care,

Adam Jacobs

Why should South Africans get involved ?

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 22:55:10 GMT

We often get asked by South Africans "Why should we get involved, when we have so many problems in our own country ?"

This is a very valid question, but one also has to be aware of the situations in the regions around us, as there is a substantial ripple effect that effects us as South Africans.

We believe that the efforts of the Mineseeker Foundation will have direct effects on the crime and the economy in South Africa. It is a well known fact that a huge source of the arms that are used in the criminal activities in South Africa are from arms-caches in Mozambique. Operation Rachel, a joint initiative between the SAPS and Mozambique are making in-roads in uncovering and destroying these caches. Their processes, however, are information and foot based. With the technology of Mineseeker we are able to detect these caches and UXO (Un Exploded Ordnance) with great speed as we can scan the ground at 100 square metres a second.

We are currently adapting our technology to offer assistance to Operation Rachel and other such initiatives. This we know will cut the supply of illegal arms into the country significantly. Furthermore, we are suffering from an influx of refugees who seek wealth and opportunity in South Africa, by addressing their needs in their home country they can return to a better life.

Our borders have UXO and landmines, and our wildlife in the Kruger Park is affected.
To make South Africa and the region a better place, we sometimes have to look outside of our backyard...

Love, peace and happiness

Kai Von Pannier

Managing Director

Mineseeker SA

SA Ambassadors Meet

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Mon, 01 Jan 2007 19:05:36 GMT

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa - The Mineseeker ambassadors Penny Streeter and Candice Hillebrand met with Mineseeker SA Director, Kai Von Pannier, to discuss the The Sole of Africa campaign. The trio have all agreed to step up the awareness campaign for the Mineseeker Foundations project, which aims to detect,remove landmines and return the cleared landmined regions to the people in Mozambique. The Mineseeker Foundation will make use of advanced technology that enables the detection of landmines from airships at a rate of 100m per second. Nelson Mandela, Queen Noor, Graca Machel, Sir Richard Branson. John Paul DeJoria and Brad Pitt are Patrons of the Foundation, which has successfully used the technology in Kosovo under the auspices of the United Nations.

Penny Streeter, Kai Von Pannier, Candice Hillebrand

More information on The Sole of Africa can be found at www.thesoleofafrica.org.za and www.mineseeker.com

28th Dec 2006

We extend a warm welcome to our new SA Ambassador, Penny Streeter!

amanda@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Amanda Mace) — Fri, 15 Dec 2006 06:24:59 GMT

Penny Streeter joins The Sole of Africa Team as a new SA Ambassador!

Welcome to the team!

Entrepreneur Penny Streeter (OBE) CEO of Ambition 24hours is appointed SA Ambassador to Mineseeker

Entrepreneur Penny Streeter – listed this week in the UK Daily Telegraph’s top 40 UK entrepreneurs aged under 40 in the UK – has been appointed as an Ambassador in South Africa for Mineseeker, the Foundation established to identify and eliminate landmines in 70 countries. She will be working with patrons who include Nelson Mandela, Graca Machel, John Paul De Joria, together with other business leaders and humanitarians.

Mineseeker invited Penny Streeter to act as an Ambassador in the ‘Sole of Africa’ campaign, which is initially targeting aid to Mozambique . The purpose of the programme is to identify and remove landmines, and then release the reclaimed land for agriculture; a ‘foster management’ team will then help the local communities to sow, grow and sell their own produce.

Penny Streeter OBE (Order of the British Empire) is CEO of Ambition 24hours, the R 700 million medical staffing agency, founded in the UK and operating in South Africa since October 2004 - when it launched a R 150 million, three year investment plan to develop its SA operation, which now includes the QA Calling call centre service, to reinforce SA’s reputation as a centre of excellence in international sales and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) activity.

In the Daily Telegraph’s top 40 list of UK entrepreneurs aged under 40 in the UK, Penny Streeter is the second highest woman and listed in 25^th position overall. She was educated at Alberton High in Johannesburg and left South Africa for the UK in the mid 1980s.

With its SA headquarters at 130,000 sq ft freehold premises in Cape Town, the company is undertaking a nationwide expansion programme to help alleviate locum, nursing and allied health care staff shortages with a 24 hours a day, seven day a week service. The company is actively encouraging medical staff to return from the UK to SA and to remain in the country, by developing career opportunities through the use of advanced IT systems and services for job placements to match the needs of healthcare service providers precisely.

Maria's Diary -Update: 18 Nov 2006

amanda@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Amanda Mace) — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 14:11:22 GMT

Maria's Diary -Update: 18 Nov 2006

Welcome back to Maria's Diary!

Maria standing tall ! 15 November 2006

Maria's spirit carried her through the difficult task of adjusting physically and mentally to her new limbs. Her courage and determination inspire us to remember to never take anything for granted. It is a sad but joyful time for us. Sad because Maria has left us to go back to her hometown, Vilanculos, Mozambique! During her time at the Arwyp Medical Centre Maria became like a family member to members of her team and is missed already by those who have had the privilege to have spent time with her. Her entire team of medical staff wish her well as she begins her life anew with the simple pleasure of being able to walk. Something we take for granted but remember walking is something her little daughter has never seen her do!

Maria and Christo 17th November

Maria arrived home safely yesterday and was welcomed back into her community by the city council and a group of singers from her church congregation. Although she missed her children during her stay here they can be very proud as are we of their mom. Maria not only worked very hard at her physiotherapy but visited and supported a young paraplegic; David Mahlala daily. She encouraged him to keep hope and to keep trying to improve on his daily therapy. She is an inspiration to all who know her.

Maria with David 17 November

Maria's smile lit up the airport lounge! Going home to her beloved children, family and friends!

Maria at the airport heading for Vilanculos 17 November.

Story and photo's courtesy of Christo Schutte: Director - Landmine Victim Assistance, Mineseeker SA

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MARIA'S DIARY

Maria Gulele from Vilanculos in Mozambique lost both her legs through a landmine, almost 15 years ago.

What is remarkable about Maria is her refreshing refusal to just be another landmine victim.

Read more about Maria and her journey through life as an amputee with the 'can do' spirit! We will be posting her diary on our blog site soon for an insight into her life.

MARIA ZEFANIAS GULELE'S STORY

After Mozambique became independent from Portugal in 1975, a brutal civil war between the ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (Frelimo) and the rebel forces of the Mozambique National Resistance (Renamo) broke out. Women and children were kidnapped by rebel soldiers and forced to move with their captors. Children as young as twelve had to carry weapons and food while walking in front of the rebel soldiers during patrols, and were used as human shields and living landmine detonators.

Maria Zefania Gulele, now aged 37, was one such young girl. She was captured in Vilanculos, a small coastal village in the Inhambane province, 720 km north of the capital Maputo.

During a reconnaissance patrol, Maria stepped on a landmine and was gravely injured. Her captors left her bleeding and mutilated in the field where she fell. Fortunately, Frelimo soldiers found her when they investigated the cause of the explosion. They took her to the ramshackle hospital in Inhambane, where both her legs were amputated above the knee. Maria Gulele: another landmine statistic, another innocent casualty of a futile ideological war.

During her rehabilitation Maria proved to be a courageous survivor who was determined to fight for her independence. Although forced to use her hands to drag herself through the blisteringly hot sand, she refused to give up, and managed to teach herself the art of braiding and hairdressing. When she returned to her hometown of Vilanculos, she borrowed ten dollars to buy the basic equipment she needed to start her own business as a hairdresser.

Maria worked in front of her house in the sand, where she sat on a small chair with her clients in front of her on a grass mat. Her customers sat for hours in summer temperatures of between 35- 45 °C (sand temperature of 40-50 °C) to have their hair braided and styled. During the torrential rainy season, Maria could not attend to her customers in her open-air salon. Without customers, she had no income.

In 2005 the leader of a South African project assisting landmine victims with prosthetic limbs and humanitarian aid enquired about landmine victims who could not reach the rehabilitation centre in Vilanculos. He was told about Maria and decided to visit her. After travelling along the rough, sandy roads which are typical of the area, he found her sitting outside her hut, busy braiding a client's hair. After seeing the conditions in which she worked, and having witnessed her irrepressible energy, he decided to build her a truly African hair salon: a spacious oval structure with cement floor, pole-framed walls, and thatched roof. Maria and her clients were now more comfortable -shaded from the harsh African sun in the extreme summer heat and sheltered from the rain. Since then, Maria's business has expanded; her income has increased; she has started to teach others the art and craft of hairdressing; and she is now in a position to employ the students she has trained.

Maria is a single parent of two children. Since she cannot move far from her home, she supplements her income by acting as a day mother, and takes care of her neighbours' children while their parents are at work or visiting relatives in the countryside.

Maria's new hair salon was officially handed over to her at a ceremony at the beginning of August 2005, during which donations of hair products, clothing, and toys were presented. Maria also received a wheelchair, cooking pots, and blankets. Even though the wheelchair cannot be used beyond the immediate environs of her house, because of the sandy terrain, it has given her a newfound mobility which has added immeasurably to the quality of her life. The radiant smile of joy and gratitude on her face will long be remembered by those who witnessed it. Her happiness, reflected in the faces of all who had the good fortune to share her joy and understand its significance, bears eloquent testimony to the strength, fortitude, and generosity of the human spirit.

To show her appreciation, Maria reciprocated with an age-old Shangaan tradition. As a token of her gratitude, she gave two of her most valued possessions - a white goat (a token of serenity) and a chicken (a tenth of her wealth) - to the people who helped her. She prepared the meat herself, as is the custom, and, together with her donors, enjoyed a fine celebration in true Shangaan style.

While driving through the beautiful, seemingly boundless African countryside, a place of ancient baobab trees and cerulean sky, on the way to the peaceful coastal village of Vilanculos, it is hard to imagine that only a few years ago a young woman named Maria was lying in a lonely field, grievously injured by an indiscriminate landmine. It is worth remembering that the town of Vilanculos and its outskirts is still a mine-infested area, cruelly burdened with the subterranean menace of undiscovered landmines. The town waits for a sustained and effective de-mining operation which will prevent innocent people from losing a limb or losing their lives while they plough their lands and cultivate their crops. In the brutal lottery of war and its aftermath, it is only a matter of time and chance before the next landmine maims, or kills, another human being.

Visitors to Maria's new hair salon will find a serene and optimistic Maria, a young woman of great dignity and courage, at ease in her surroundings and determined to live her life to the full.

Maria Zefanias Gulele is no longer a statistic. She is a symbol of hope for landmine victims all over the world.

Story and photo's courtesy of Christo Schutte: Director - Landmine Victim Assisstance, Mineseeker SA

News Brief

Update on Maria 19 October 2006

Welcome to South Africa Maria!

News today is that Maria arrived in South Africa on Wednesday the 18th of October 2006. She will receive specialised rehabilitation and artificial limbs. We are all hopeful that Maria will be able to walk again after she lost both her legs through an indiscriminate weapon, a landmine, almost 15 years ago.

The duration for her initial treatment at the Arwyp Medical Centre will be approximately 3 -4 weeks. During this time a daily diary of her progress will be posted on this Blog site.

Maria at the Arwyp Medical Centre.

Dr Stander Medical Superintendent at Arwyp Medical Centre

Update on Maria 18 November 2006

John Paul DeJoria sponsors Maria

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Thu, 19 Oct 2006 14:09:51 GMT

John Paul DeJoria (JP) CEO of John Paul Mitchell Systems and patron of The Sole of Africa, has led the way by donating funds to Maria to give her new prosthetic legs. JP traveled to Mozambique earlier this year with the Sole of Africa team to see first hand the plight of people affected by landmines. It was during this trip that Christo Schutte of Mineseeker SA introduced him to Maria.

JP was so taken by Maria's positive attitude and her resolution to running her own hair salon, that he personally committed to helping Maria with getting prosthetic legs on behalf of Paul Mitchell Systems. In a moving moment on the beach, Maria presented JP with a wireframe model of a landmine victim.

Maria is currently in Pretoria, South Africa where she is at the Arwyp Medical Centre receiving treatment.

This was all made possible through the funding and support of JP de Joria, Paul Mitchell Systems, Dr Linda Steyn(Physiotherapist), Trevor Brauckmann of Brauckmann Inc, AMA (PTY) Ltd and the Rotary Club of Pretoria East.

Candice Hillebrand puts her foot down !

kai@thesoleofafrica.org.za (Kai Von Pannier) — Tue, 17 Oct 2006 17:58:03 GMT

CANDICE HILLEBRAND JOINS US BY PUTTING HER FOOT DOWN !

I was very moved by the website Charlie showed me. I love how this cause will change lives now and for future generations.

I was not actively involved in any other charities at the time and so I leapt at the opportunity to join the Sole Of Africa team!!

In the past my involvement has been with The Nelson Mandela Children's fund poster campaign and print ads for AIDS awareness (Red Ribbon). I also performed at a Students for Students benefit in New York to support Health education and HIV prevention for the Children of South Africa when I moved to the USA last year. Students for Students is a non profit organisation where the worlds leading Business Schools come together to improve lives through education.

Through my media profile in South Africa, I also worked with SPCA on a regular basis, Reach for a Dream, Child Welfare and I washed a lot of Penguins a few years back when there was a large oil spill in Port Elizabeth, South Africa (if that counts) LOL.

So I have put my foot down....have you?

Candice xxx