FEAST OR FAMINE

Seventy-six percent (76%) of Africa’s elephants are in transboundary populations, which means that they are able to move freely across countries to gain access to water and food. This is also known as ‘free to roam.’ MARTINA NICOLLS is an international aid and development consultant, and the author of:- Similar But Different in the Animal Kingdom (2017), The Shortness of Life: A Mongolian Lament (2015), Liberia’s Deadest Ends (2012), Bardot’s Comet (2011), Kashmir on a Knife-Edge (2010) and The Sudan Curse (2009).

South Sudan has been cursed with oil. It has the oil and its neighbour to the north, Sudan, has the refineries. The two countries were previously one country, but South Sudan gained its independence in 2011 after a vote. The peace accord between the two countries was signed in January 2005, with the condition that a vote on secession or unity would occure after six years, in July 2011. Border, land, oil, and water disputes were prolific before independence and continue along the border regions four years after independence. Both countries have placed too much dependence on oil to provide their country’s wealth. Huffington Post documents a promising factor that might bring South Sudan the economic growth and peace it aspires to (September 22, 2015). Coffee may the sustainable agricultural crop that brings investors and investment to the region. Neither country has capitalized to date on economic diversification, but that could be the solution to their economic development, ...

The 6% growth rate predicted for 2013 for Georgia didn’t eventuate but exports rose 14% and some sectors have grown, says the Caucasian Business Week (December 30, 2013). The increasing sectors Tourism: This was a success for Georgia in 2013 with the number of visitors increasing by 22% compared to the previous year. A record 5 million visitors in a one-year period added almost USD$800 million in the first six months. The prediction is that this sector will increase in 2014 due to target ad campaigns, construction of infrastructure, and improved services. Viticulture: Winemaking had a successful 2013 with almost double the exports (96% growth) and revenues exceeding USD$90 million. A total of 45 million bottles of Georgian wines were exported to 48 countries (with a significant return to the Russian market). The 2013 vintage was also one of the most successful over the past few years, making 2014 a likely positive trend. Energy: The sector attracts ...