What rebels, NATO, Western countries and technology are doing in Libya?

Osama Fathy Ashour, the 29 year old rebel fighter in Libya is dead. Mourners are praying at his funeral. Its a ritual now. A sacred duty to offer condolence, lament, grieve in pain and yet continue the fight. How many more rebels will be sacrificed, we dont know. 

Moving towards the international and regional politics involved in the country, the past few weeks have witnessed a lot of globetrotters,speeches, funding hopes and yes, bombings.

‘NATO’s stand’

‘One piece of human intelligence is not enough,’ says one of the sources from the private security companies who are helping NATO to identify and target the movements of Colonel Gadaffi supporters in Misrata, Libya.

Currently, Libyan government has started accusing the NATO for killing the 718 civilians. Also, more than 4000 civilians have been injured due to the air strikes.

When I asked David Heathfiel, video journalist from NatoChannel. TV, he had stated that everything can not be bombed in Libya by the Nato. With the blame game starting in such a stupendous manner against the entire force, there needs to be this acceptance that at some point, even Nato, irrespective of how flawless it seems, does have its own limitations.

‘Libya: how we see it’

In February, it seemed like  a country which would imitate the Tunisian and Egyptian independence. Today, it has become just another story lost in the commercial pages of newspapers. People have stopped talking about it. Even if they do, the superficiality becomes evident. No one cares. Its becoming like Afghanistan where the war in itself became anonymous after some time.

Opinions are changing and so is the pursuit for it.

‘Gadaffi will not go’

However, the Libyan TV has recently broadcasted pictures of Colonel Gadaffi while having conversation with South African President Jacob Zuma. Their talks have been summoned as ‘inconclusive’. Initially, what seemed like an agreement to ceasefire is now once again, just proving to be the same old rut.

On the other hand, President Barack Obama and British PM Cameron have stated their reluctance against ‘boots on the ground.’ With US calling the soldiers back from Afghanistan in the coming months, definitely another military pursuit in another Islamic country might demand a greater price to pay.

Though, Hillary Clinton plans to visit the UAE on 9th June to hold talks with countries backing Libyan rebels.

‘Technology and Libya’

In a discussion with Tim Weber, the business editor in BBC, one point became clear. If in today’s social networking sparked revolution, Libya and other countries like it, have the boon and bane of technology, side by side.

Everyone stated that technology can be harnessed for knowing more information about the middle eastern conflict. But then, Tim also made me realise that if we are talking about technology, then so are those dictators who are ruling over the masses.

Its no doubt, a double edged sword.

Credit: Photo from Reuters

Why Algeria-Morocco border ‘will not open’?

Algerian Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia has stated that there are no upcoming chances of reopening Algeria’s border with Morocco. Both the countries have played the blame game, invested currency on defence, suffered loss in trade and above all, deleted communication with each other.

Several visits of top bureaucrats from both the countries into each others territories somehow proved promising to the North -African and the international platform about the re-opening of the border.

Taking a diplomatic stand, PM Ouyahia has stated that though the re-opening is not currently in the agenda, it would definitely happen someday.

Though, MoroccoBoard News Service quoted that Algerian daily ‘Voice of Oran’ had confirmed that the opening of the Morocco-Algerian border would take place on 2nd June.

‘15 years, 970 miles’

The border has been shut by Algeria in 1994 due to the imposition of entrance visa by Morocco against Algerians. The gun attack in Marrakesh, one of the most important imperial cities in Morocco’s history had caused turbulence in Morocco-Algeria relationship.

Hence, 23 new guard posts were set up with an official excuse to start checking on smuggling and illegal activities. In response to the ‘firm closure of the border’, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Chief had requested both the countries to keep their personal prejudices apart so that balkanisation of North Africa could be avoided.

Mohammed VI, the King of Morocco had stated that Algeria plans to fragment the Maghreb empire and cause disruption in trade.

Currently, the Maghreb empire includes Western Sahara, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya.

‘Financing Libya’

Algerian PM Ouyahia has stated that there is the need for growing faith and trust for the re-opening of the borders. However, he questioned the existence of such a scenario by complaining against some Moroccon official documents which have accussed Algeria of financially supporting the uprising in Libya.

Futher defending his country’s stand, PM Ouyahia stated that Algeria’s stand in the context of Libya falls in accordance with the rules of the African Union.

‘Sahara war’

The Algerian-Moroccon border has witnessed openings and closures for several times since 1962. One of the main reasons was the Sahara war. On one hand, Morocco, annexxed the Western Sahara which is a former Spanish Colony while on the other hand, Algeria has been advocating several independence movements in it.

Though, the implications of re-opening the Algeria-Morocco border would be of great advantage for re-establishing the trade and communication for Morocco. Its geo-political isolation would be curbed down. Though, Algerians have officially stated their severe disapointment regarding the 1994 case and demand apology.

Nevertheless, both the countries need to draft a strategic and administrative policy which would ease each other’s defense, trade and relations, leading to fostering the North African unity.

Credit: Photo for Algerian PM Ouyahia from Reuters

UK grants asylum to the man who tortured people in Zimbabwe

Does justice mean punishing the ‘wrong’ for committing sin or safeguarding the ‘wrong’ from inevitable torture that can be done to him.

Phillip Machemedze, the man who is suspected of carrying horrible acts of torture under the Zimbabwean dictator Robert Mugabe has been granted asylum in Britain.

This action has been under taken to protect his human rights, states the British News reports. In the meanwhile, the horrendous defiance of the same human rights that Machemedze once caused, is not being questioned to the same level, it should be.

The judges of Immigration Tribunal did find that Phillip Machemedze has caused ‘savage acts of extreme violence’ which included the terrible injuries that were inflicted on the opponents of Mugabe.

Others included smashing the jaws of a man with a pair of pliers along with innumerable odious acts. But the judges said he could not be deported. The online web is flooded with acts of violence committed by Machemedze, many which would be shameful to even mention, again.

But judges voiced that this 42-year old HIV positive suspect would himself face the torture if he returns home, especially since he turned his back against the Zanu PF regime of Mugabe.

Also, the court documents have declined the torturous activities committed by Machemedze under the state sponsored crime list.

‘Enjoyed the job’

In one of the official statements by Machemedze to the judges, he stated that ‘initially he enjoyed the job but later had enough of the torture.’

That is when in 2000, Machemedze decided to come to Britain on a visitor’s visa. Currently, he lives in Bristol along with his wife Febbie. There has been no scrutiny done on how his vistor visa got extended and what is his current source of livelihood.

The judges have declared that if Machemedze is deported, he would be definitely tortured by the Mugabe regime. Hence, it would be against the European Convention on Human rights article 2 and 3.

‘Zimbabwe elections of 2000’

The 2000 elections in Zimbabwe left an indelible scar in the country’s past. The Central Intelligence Organisation of Mugabe was blamed for causing horrendous violence against the opponents of the dictator Mugabe.

Around 90 people were killed while 80 were tortured.

‘Condemned judgment’

Several nationals believe that the judge who fell for the sob story of Machemedze should have been wiser. Also, they believe that Machemedze came to UK for economic reasons.

Home Secretary Theresa May is also very shocked after the judgement and plans to fight against it.

Also, Machemedze has been seen going on the lash with random girls at the Hush Hush Club recently. Dressed in orange cap, bling watch and suede waistcoat, Machemedze’s judgment is definitely going to cause more ado.

However, the judges currently choose to stick with their decision in an attempt to protect the life of the torturer and grant him asylum in Britain, safeguarding his longevity.

Credit: Photo from Google

‘Abyei’ conflict might spark another North South civil war, experts fear

With South Sudan ready to secede on 9^th July, the disputes over who controls Abyei turn violent.

Around 15,000 people have fled from the Abyei region as the Northern troops seized the area, the Guardian reports. In response, the Southern Sudanese President Salva Kirr has demanded the intervention of international troops to reach political solutions.

Experts fear that the North-South conflict might reignite the abhorrent battles in between the two sides. This largest African country has already witnessed extensive civil wars due to military, political, ethnic and religious reasons.

As the tension mounts, the memories of 1.5 million people who were killed in the previous conflicts have started haunting the civilians.

‘Why to control Abyei?’

Under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), Abyei had been granted the ‘special administrative status’ in 2004.

One of the reasons why both Northern and Southern Sudan are ferociously engrossed in animosity on the ‘Abyei’ topic is due to the geo-political location of the area. Situated in the Muglad Basin which is a massive oil reserve for Sudan, Abeyi had been credited as the major ‘investment point’ for Sudan’s oil industry.

Also, the Greater Nile Oil Pipeline, one of the important pipelines, also runs across through Abyei, further enhancing its importance.

After the commencement of this pipeline, the export of oil reserves in Sudan has witnessed a dramatic increase. Hence, it indirectly proves to be one of the main revenue generators for the country.

‘Not that sad civil war again’

Southern Sudan President Salva Kiir has stated that South Sudan is waiting for its independence and does not want to resume the ‘sad civil war again.’

He also stressed on how the South Sudan army plans to maintain peace with the Northern troops controlled by President Umar al-Bashir.

Present Salva, recognised for his cowboy hat, has played a dynamic role in guiding his homeland Southern Sudan through innumerable challenges after the 2005 peace deal.

‘North Sudan speaks for citizens.’

While the North Sudan’s Defence Minister Abdelrahim Mohamed Hussein states that North Sudan would not withdraw the troops from Abyei until and unless an official and peaceful negotiation is reached. The freedom to the citizens and stability to the administration should be guaranteed.

President Omar al-Bashir has stated that any form of ‘provocation’ from the side of Southern troops would be met in a ferocious manner.

Currently, 22 people have been killed in this ambush, BBC reports. Also, when the White House stated that this seizure would lead to future changes in debt reliefs, President Omar stated that he was not interested in America’s funds.

In a nutshell, a peaceful transition looks doubtful over coming days, as both the North and South Sudan being politically and militarily involved.

 Credit: Picture of South Sudan’s President from Reuters

Is Indian PM Manmohan Singh’s $5billion grant to Africa a tough competition for China?

Explicit and undeviating PM Dr. Manmohan Singh has offered $5billion grant to the African continent for the next three years, along with $700 million grant for establishment of new institutions.

Recently, Dr. Singh offered $500m to Afganistan for the coming six years.

To any layman this seems like a rapid influx of grants by the Indian economy spanning from 3 to 6 years, inspite of being herself fighting in the morass of credit crunch and excruciating hulabaloo.

Surrounded with tough geographical competitors, when one envisages the second time, the options for India do appear less.

But before delving deeper into the wider consequences of this grant, one must know that both China and India have started this fast paced competition to woo Africa, in their own respective ways.

The main challenging sectors continue to be food, minerals and resources. As China continues to invest in the mining and oil platforms in Sudan, Zimbabwe and Zambia, India chooses to involve with Kenya, Nigeria and Malawi.

‘Spirit of Solidarity’

The Indian Prime Minister Dr. Singh is focussed on harnessing the ‘new spirit of solidarity in the developing countries.

The offer confirmed India’s support in the financial commitment with the continent in the Africa India Forum Summit that took place in  Addis Ababa.

In 2008, India has offered $5.4 billion aid to Africa. Though, countries like China, Turkey, Japan have partnership with Africa, India is the only country which entered the second round of the partnership with the continent.

The trade between Africa and India would witness an increase to 70 billion dollars in 2015 from only 3 billion dollars from 2000-2001, experts say.

Dr. Singh met President of Kenya Emilio Mwai Kibaki, Malawi president Bingnwa Mutharika and President of Senyal Abdoulaye Wade.

‘Agend of the summit’

The agenda of African partnership with India is to enhance the cluster for food processing in the African countries, along with enhancing the centres of weather forecasting and establishment of earth and life sciences institutes.

Dr. Singh also encouraged the intake of African students in Indian universities and confirmed around 10,000 scholarships which would be made available for them in the coming three years.

‘Africa’s benefit’

Dr. Singh who is visiting Africa for the third time in his administrative reign spanning eight years, states that ‘Africa has the potential for global development’.

Jean Ping, the Chairman of African Union Commission stated that when the powerful Western countries were witnessing a downfall, countries like India, China and Brazil did not get affected by recession and hence, their presence had also helped Africa to continue on the paths of development.

Though, Dr. Singh also conveyed the motive that Africa could play a dynamic role in reforming political and global conditions, which included supporting India’s presence in the UN Security Council.

Irrespective of it all, its high time when the nation starts investing in her own foundations, setting up flawless infrastructure and development goal plans, rather than doing the same for the other countries.

President Obama visits London- What next?

US President Barack Obama’s visit to Europe witnesses its second destination after Ireland. The President arrived at London, 12 hours before his schedule, avoiding the ash flight delays. He was welcomed at the Buckingham Palace with royal pomp and show as ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ was played in the background by the Scots Guards.

But to anyone who has been scrutinizing how Obama was welcomed in Ireland and the royal treatment he got in London- the British style of offering honour and delight will get more than obvious. Also becaus I am currently reading Barack Obama’s auto-biography, I am able to understand, though to a very less degree for sure, what is going on in his mind.

And yes, its humor for me.

His words come in my mind, during the days when he was trying to establish himself in the Democrat role, ‘I tried my best to keep my mouth shut and hear what people had to say. I listened to people talk about their jobs, the local school, their anger at Bush and democrats, their dogs, their back pain, their war service and the things they carried from their childhood.’

Thus, I can imagine Obama listening about ‘the royal wedding, concern over Joplin, recession, Middle East, back pain, London’s weather, war service and of course, Afghanistan.’

As the US President and his wife meet the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the essential changes in the relationship between US and UK get highlighted.

Recently, both President Obama and British PM David Cameron had written a joint article mentioning the relationship between US and UK is ‘essential’ rather than just ‘special.’

‘Key Issues’

The emerging world issues integrated with the brutal protests going on in the Middle East prove to be the core underlying reasons behind the Europe tour. This is President Obama’s eighth trip to Europe.

Currently, the priority of this Europe trip is to definitely clarify and function on the West’s role in the Arab uprising. Promotion of financial stability and democracy are the other major concerns.

‘Rift in US-UK relations’

Over the past few years, the US-UK relations have definitely witnessed the emergence of rift. Though, it started with the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico last year. Moreover, the unilateral announcement of UK to withdraw 10,000 troops from Afghanistan came as another major jolt to the relationship.

The recent stand of US in not taking a very upfront stand in Libya has also widened the differences. Moreover, President Obama not being invited to the Royal Wedding, a subject which was not much debated on, did show another crack.

‘Houses of Parliament’

President Obama would be addressing the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday and speaking about the role of western countries in Afghanistan.

Following the speech, both President Obama and PM Cameron would have private talks related with the current Middle Eastern uprising.

‘Group of Eight- French Summit’

Later both the politicians would join the French summit ‘Group of Eight’ which has already been confirmed by President Obama’s recent speech on the Middle-east.

The summit would focus on the economic and market integration of the Egyptian and Tunisian financial conditions so that they witness an upliftment.

Meanwhile, Obama’s departure would take place on Sunday. He would also visit France and Poland in this trip.

The entire trip tends to hold international importance as it would follow the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan in the later month.

Another Scar: Terrorist attack on Pakistan, conspiracy theories, role of India and US

The 18 hour long terrorist attack on the PNS Mehran airbase in Karachi leading to the loss of 2 Orion P-3C aircrafts, each valuing $36m is a jeopardising blow for Pakistan, especially after the Abbottabad raid of Osama bin Laden. The inferno not only proves to be a damage to installations and assets but it questions about security, safety and once again, death.

‘Attacks on symbols of defence and security create more panic as they convey a vivid impression that what about the common man if our defenders are unable to protect themselves.’ comments Pakistan Observer.

‘India’s Hand?’

One of the Pakistani newspapers have stated the utter dislike which India has for PC3 Orions and has already shot down one over the Rann of Kutch during a huge fight.  Also, the Orions are equipped with  Harpoon anti-missiles, which are a great challenge to India.

Though, Dawn reports that the Pakistani Taliban has confirmed their hand in this attack, once again, stating it as a brutual revenge to Osama’s death.

‘Insider’s hand?’

Security analyst Imtiaz Gul has stated that it ‘looks like an insider’s job‘. Especially, the mere fact analysis of the methodical tactics involved. Discrepancies on how the Islamist fighters manage to gain access is another debatable question which haunts the Pakistan security, especially after the PFA was unable to detect American raid on 1st May.

‘ America’s role‘

The PC3 Orions were American surveillance planes. Army leader Gen. Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has stated that US Senator John Kerry confirmed that US was not interested in seizing Pakistani’s nuclear weapons.

General Ashfaq wants to enhance the morale and dispel the impression of incompetence by re-doubling the efforts against terrorism.

Meanwhile, Naval Chief Adm. Nauman Bashir is being criticised for stating that there was no security lapse.

Though, Pakistan’s ability to safeguard its own vital assets and nuclear installations is getting damaged.

‘Meanwhile, in India.’

In India, as the trial as Tahawwur Hussain Rana who was accussed of helping plan the terror attacks in Mumbai is getting judged in a Chicago court, the main prosecution protagonist Headley has confessed that he had help from Pakistan’s spy. He even testified, exposing the role of Pakistan’s ISI.

‘ Another scar’

Pakistan has witnessed innumerable atrocities. The first one, in this manslaughter was seen in 2007 when the commando base witnessed a suicide attack. Next was 2009 Rawalpindi on a mosque on 4th December where 5 armed suicide attackers hurled fire on around 150 worshipers. The recent attack was when Pakistani Taliban Tehrik-e-Taliban carried out two bomb attacks in the Frontier Constabulary located in Charsadda district.

The real questions?

There are two main questions which are involved in the entire Karachi attack. The first one deals with, who did it? Though, Taliban has once again confirmed but it does not seem possible for the organisation to carry on an attack like this without the aid of any foreign hand. Secondly, who ever did it, did it, but till when will the innocent people of Pakistan face the fear and ignominy?

‘Pakistan can take care of her problems’

The entire butchery reminds me what Dr. Zaid Hamed , the political commentator had once said. ‘The western media states that the more you believe in conspiracy theories, the lesser you believe in facts. If Pakistan questions their deception and lies, it makes her a conspiracy theorist.’

In his interview, he had stated how he was not against any country but the ideology that governs it. The fact that even many citizens can be hard core fanatic believers in their country’s policy or might be against it, builds a nation.

Ultimately, he had voiced. ‘Pakistan can take care of her problem. But the Pakistani people have been lied for the past 60 years.’

Undoubtedly, the intrusion into Pakistan’s politics is because of its ideology, it being a Muslim nuclear state the physical location and the geopolitics involved.

He ultimately states why Pakistan is unable to mend her ways. ‘Its because the Russian, Chinese, Indians, Israelis, Arabs, Iranians and Americans are so involved with what is happening in Pakistan.’

For a spectator like me, India has the Mumbai attacks to heal herself with, Pakistan recently had the Karachi attack, US had the World Trade Centre, Afghanistan and Iraq had their own soil being infiltrated by soldiers, the middle east has continuous bloodshed.

But ultimately, what humanity has, no one knows. Perhaps, it does not have anything left, anymore.

Photo Credit: From Reuters

‘I do not want our revolution to be stolen,’ says a Libyan rebel

Libya has reached to a certain form of distorted ambivalence that strategic reforms, military co-operations, embargo and the lives of rebels do not connect any more. It seems like actions are not saving anyone. And even if they are, we dont know about it.

Catherine Ashton, the European Union’s Foreign Policy Chief, stated that ‘its time for Colonel Gadaffi to go’ during the establishment of an office in rebel held Benghazi.

The benefits of this office and suddenly opening it now after the conflict reaches the fourth month does not pacify my questions. Also, I do not see a necessity behind it.

Ashton during her current visit to Libya would be discussing several necessary aspects of the Middle Eastern conflict in the country, dealing with emergence of civil society, economy, border management and security reformation.

Currently, the endeavours to deter Colonel Gadaffi supporters have not suceeded, in spite of implementation of the ‘no fly zone’, arms embargo and target sanctions.

Meanwhile, President Obama has started with his European Tour to discuss about the Middle eastern conflict with the first destination being Ireland.

‘Misrata: the turning point’

In the entire conflict which now spuns three months, the fighting at Misrata has been one of the turning points in Libya. To start with, the rebels found out the stealthy and determined sealift for fleet of boats. This sea transport has been used to distrbution of food and medicines, along with the protecting the safety of the rebels.

Recently, the rebels have organised 12 fishing vessels and several tugboats which were previously organised by Colonel Gadaffi into an impromptu fleet that helps in providing lifeline to Misrata.

Though, after the fierce fighting on Sunday, rebel Abdelsalam told the Reuters that its  very difficult to see how the Gadaffi forces are being able to re-enter into the city inspite of the good defence lines and NATO assistance.

‘Rebel controlled regions’

The rebel controlled regions in Libya include Misrata, the parts of the Nafusa mountain region and the eastern coastal region of Cyrenaica.

Meanwhile, 27 countries of the European Union has frozen their diplomatic ties with the dictator. Also, the European Commission has confirmed to provide a grant of 20 million euros to the humanitarian actions in Libya.

Though, a soft spoken Haithem al-Mangoush simply states that ‘I do not want our revolution to be stolen.’

But as the ‘sea of assasinations’ continue, the most herculean task continues to be the procurement of weapons and ammunition by the Libyan rebels.

‘History of Iraq and Afghanistan repeats’

Questioning the role of NATO, Rear Admiral Chris Parry, the former Royal Navy admiral stated that the current situation in Libya is a repeated reflection of what happened in Iraq and Afghanistan. He said that its time time when the entire ‘strategy’ of NATO should be re-worked in Libya .

In spite of all the developments and surrenders that are hauting the country, in some cities, the everyday life seems to get back on track. Though, the current jubilation might seem deceptive eventually.

And what did Obama finally speak on Middle East

‘Spending all day at the White House helping to draft Obama’s big Mid East speech tomorrow. So far we’ve agreed on “God bless America‘, says the tweet of Henry Kissinger, 56th United States Secretary Chairman. (The account is a parody)

Irony.

Explicitly throwing light on how America ended combat mission in Iraq, the recent return signal for US soldiers from Afghanistan from July and condemning of Osama bin Laden’s defiance against democracy, President Obama finally gave the much awaited speech for Middle east and Africa on Thursday.

Promising a new chapter in US foreign policy in the Middle-East, President Obama suggested that US is no longer going to support the atrocious dictators in the Middle East for the benefit of oil supply but rather would introduce long term economic and democratic changes.

‘Self immolation of a street vendor in Tunisia’

Speaking about how the entire Middle Eastern conflict started, President Obama spoke about the young vendor Mohammed Bouazizi from Tunisia who set himself on fire after the egregious police officer confiscated his cart and no government officialy paid heed to his need.

Giving more weightage to global economy than international politics, President Obama talked more about innovative technology, growing need of integrating the market economies and impact of business entrepreneurship.

Adding humane and naked ground realities of a common man’s world, Obama stated that ‘Politics alone has not put protesters into the streets. The tipping point for so many people is the more constant concern of putting food on the table and providing for a family.’

‘Initial goal of America’

Obama clearly mentioned that few important aspects of foreign policy of America in the region dealt with countering terrorism, free flow of commerce, protecting Israel’s security and guarding the security of the region.

He stated that ‘Societies held together by fear and repression may offer the illusion of stability for a time, but they are built upon fault lines that will eventually tear asunder.’

‘Current Obama plan’

President Obama stated that the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund would present a plan in the coming G-8 summit to aid the economies in Tunisia and Egypt.  Also, to avoid the democratic Egypt to be saddled by its past, America agrees to grant a one billion aid to the country. He also informed about the enterprise funds which the White House is trying to chalk out with the Congress to help the Middle east economy.

The Overseas Private Investment Corporation(OPIC) aims to launch a 2 billion facility for financial empowerment.

‘Israel-Palestine Issue’

Undoubtedly, this part of Obama’s speech has been making headlines. Firstly, the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu in the White House on Friday. Secondly, Obama’s endorsement of Palestinian demands putting Netanyahu in a very unviable position in the international politics.

Though, he clearly stated that ‘Symbolic actions to isolate Israel at the United Nations in September won’t create an independent state. And Palestinians will never realise their independence by denying the right of Israel to exist.’

‘Lessons from the past’

Bringing the wide ranging audience back to the world of upheavel, President Obama stated that ‘there is no straight line to progress, and hardship always accompanies a season of hope.’

Reiterating the belief of United States of America, President Obama spoke how the government always supports to people who govern themselves. Thus, as he said, America would stand by the side of those brave protestors who chose to fight for their rights and existence.

Credit: Photo from Getty Images

Impact of real time data processing in crisis situation

Imagine knowing about Libya, Yemen and Bahrain in a three dimesional manner, watching the bombing infront of you, knowing which town has been inflicted with airplanes, hearing true stories. Well, this dream is not too far now.

Engrossed in a lively conversation with budding entrepreneurs  in London, Jon Gosier is unpretentious, confident and above all, very courteous.

Quickly making time for my eager questions, Jon Gosier, famously known as the ‘Technical Guru of Africa’ reflects about his product SwiftRiver at Ushahidi, role of technology and challenges related with real time data processing.

As a budding journalist, what left a lasting impression on my mind was how this man understood how important the interview was for me, rushed with me to one corner and answered all my queries. One after another. There was no pomp and show, no fake demand of respect or even the fact that ‘Look at me, I am a high profile guy.’

For several years, this 29 year old software developer and speaker at TEDGlobal has been playing a pivotal role in collecting data from disaster response groups. During the process of being the director of Swiftly.org and establishing communication in crisis situations, Jon reflects how he believes that connectivity is growing in Africa.

‘Impact of technology in Africa’

Contemplating about the change in time, he mentions how young people are using GoogleReader and other basic tools to be up-to-date. No doubt, it does signify a dramatic change. The goal of SwiftRiver, as he simply puts across, is ‘to create awareness through  applications which cause empowerment.’

Though, speaking about the future of real time web processing in Africa, Jon says that the basic infrastructure that is needed is very expensive. Also, it’s hugely dependent on mobile phones and technical tablets, along with concerns of privacy. Thus, the road ahead is definitely herculean.

Meanwhile, exposing the challenges of real time data processing, he says that its risky and can be also used for malicious activities.

Shifting towards the business level, he explains the impact of connectivity which is rising through open source mapping, real time social timing, source mapping, google visualisation and translation. Over the years, Jon has been trying to effectively use these platforms to give accurate results.

‘Trustworthy Vs Non-trustworthy sources’

But at times, Jon Gosier does face problems in differentiating between trustworthy and non-trustworthy sources.

He calls it a ‘monumental task’. One of the ways to figure out if a contact is genuine or not, the team of SwiftRiver checks on the individuals who provide information defining them as the contacts.

Also, the ‘trustworthiness’ of information also depends on factors such as influence, uniqueness, translation and tagging. Giving the example of Egypt, the entrepreneur narrates how he set up the construct and allowed people to curate their truth.

‘The Difference: Natural Disaster Vs Conflicts’

But the challenge of construct grows during crisis such as earthquakes in Haiti and Japan.

Though, Jon calls the Haiti earthquake a ‘learning experience’, he did feel that one faces a lot of technological inefficiency during outsourcing in the times of disaster.

Comparing with Japan, the scale was different in terms of technological involvement. But then, the immediate need of automatic translation tools proved to be another daunting task in this case. One has no option left but to rely on translation or find a hybrid.

In the case of conflict, the confrontations are different.

Narrating his experience during the Egyptian revolution, Jon voices that he saw there were many people ‘working independently and telling different stories’. It felt like witnessing same occurrences but through different lenses.

So, it grew important to establish ‘seeds of reconciliation’. The same phenomenon happened in Nigeria during the time of elections.

Ultimately, Jon learnt that the main purpose needs to be bringing together people who normally do not talk to help in processing the information.

‘Future Projects’

Jon is working on River ID which is a reputation data store. Here, his team treats every source as a unique identity, trying to digitally use it as a currency for social exchange.

This social exchange involves analysis of human behaviour involved in communication, the impact of information exchange and the short/long term goals of it.

As the interview slowly approached the end, Jon Gosier established himself as a man who knows the demand of technology, the inefficiency in infrastructure that exists but is working with utter diligence to make a difference, a mark.