Monday, December 26, 2011

Black Diamonds: The Feeding Frenzy of the New Elites in South Africa

!: Black Diamonds: The Feeding Frenzy of the New Elites in South Africa

Book Title: Black Diamond
Author: Zakes Mda
Publisher: Penguin Books

Black Diamond is a fictional story of contemporary life in the new South Africa. The story is told through the life and times of Don Mateza, a former member of the African National Congress (ANC) military wing uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK). Don is attempting to carve a niche for himself in an unforgiving arena of South African politics that is characterised by neoliberalism and tenderpreneurship.

The book also captures the fading fortunes of South Africa's liberation struggle activists and the deferred dreams of freedom fighters. Simultaneously, it lays bare the conspicuous consumption of the few - politicians and tenderpreneurs. It suggests that the neglect of former freedom fighters plays a crucial if not a determinant role in the increase of violent crimes especially cash-in-transit heists. Two of Don's comrade-in-arms are forced by the economic circumstances of the time to take up arms against the new enemy - poverty and hopelessness. Unfortunately, they resort to crime.

Zakes Mda's novel is explicitly set in the post apartheid South Africa (late 2000's) - a period of unprecedented economic growth and the birth of a new black middle class, the Black Diamonds. It is suggested that its birth is as a result of a plethora of government engineered economic policies. This class is estimated to be about 2.6 million people in a society of approximately 48 million citizens, majority of whom are considered black. This class (Black Diamonds) owes its existence to the highly contested economic policies of the post apartheid South Africa. Some of these policies include the contentious 1996 growth plan dubbed Growth, Employment and Redistribution Strategy (GEAR), affirmative action and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE). BEE seeks to transform the economy to be representative of the demographics especially race. The end of apartheid (since 1994) saw the continued control of big business resting in the hands of white individuals.

It is within this context that Don Mateza's girlfriend, Tumi enters the story. Tumi, former model and successful businesswoman does not understand why her boyfriend (MK former commander) is not part of the tenderpreneurs. These are a special class of businesspeople in South Africa - they trade and amass wealth through political connectivity. Broadly, tenderpreneurship is a unique South African term used to describe government officials, politicians and businessmen who use their power or proximity to the powerful ANC political luminaries to influence and secure government tenders and contracts.

The novel, Black Diamond takes us through the struggles of ordinary people in South Africa. It focuses on the changing nature of ANC politics - from people-centred development to neoliberalism or profit driven actions and policies. In this scenario, former freedom fighters and ordinary people without any connections in high places are left to fend for themselves.

Therefore, Don Mateza is a metaphor of the changing times. These times are characterised by the remaking of friendships and re-definition of comradeship in the new South Africa. Despite the fact that Don was a high ranking member of the ANC military wing, he remains a mere security guard in the post apartheid South Africa. At best, he provides security services to his former cadres who have now joined the ranks of the Black Diamonds. Don's girlfriend is incessantly peeved at this state of affairs. She intends to change it fast. It's Tumi's drive that seems to put pressure on Don to work harder. Although to Don's mind his feeding-at-the-trough strategy seems limited to at least getting a promotion as the head of security where he works.

Don's relentless attempts to please his girlfriend, and carve a niche for himself take him to the bigger societal problems. One of Don's security assignments is to protect Kristin Uys, a tough white Afrikaans magistrate. Uys is on a mission to wipe out prostitution in her town. However, Uys attempts to scupper the prostitution ring brings her face-to-face with the alleged criminal underworld of the Visagie Brothers. Uys's life is threatened and ultimately she fails to nail the Visagie Brothers. During the Visagie Brothers trial, Don becomes the personal bodyguard to Uys. This chance encounter transforms both Don and Uys attitude to life and their mundane lives become interwoven into the story of the new South Africa. This detour in the book shows how the other half lives - white, Indians and coloured South Africans in this new dispensation.

The novel, Black Diamond is a classic analysis of the post apartheid economic policy choices and their impact on the body politic of a nation. It is journey into the heart of what is wrong with neoliberalism and the negative effect of quick fix solutions to the structural economic problems such as BEE policies.

Black Diamonds: The Feeding Frenzy of the New Elites in South Africa

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Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Tumi T-Tech Data T-Pass Ekert Slim Laptop Briefcase,Black,one size

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Brand : TUMI | Rate :

| Price : $195.00
Post Date : Dec 21, 2011 09:18:20 | Usually ships in 24 hours

Tumi T-Tech Data T-Pass Ekert Slim Laptop Briefcase,Black,one size

Measures approximately 11" x 15 3/4" x 3 1/2"

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Thursday, December 15, 2011

Tumi Luggage T-Tech Presidio Lincoln Frequent Business Traveler, Mist, One Size

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| Price : $295.00 | Post Date : Dec 15, 2011 09:51:19
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From t-tech's presidio collection, this case has all of the features and function that the frequent traveler demands. The main compartment expands by 2 inch for longer trips and features a removable, fold-out garment sleeve. Interior and exterior pockets for accessories. Dual-tube telescoping handle and smooth-rolling wheels

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Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Tumi Alpha Organizer Portfolio Brief 026108DH,Black,one size

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Brand : TUMI | Rate :

| Price : $275.00
Post Date : Nov 30, 2011 12:45:06 | Usually ships in 24 hours

Tumi Alpha Organizer Portfolio Brief 026108DH,Black,one size

Tumi in Black. This slim portfolio-style briefcase is perfect for lighter workload days, or carrying into a meeting or presentation. Made from Tumi's signature ballistic nylon it features interior organizer pockets, and several exterior pockets for accessories. Material: . Men's Briefcases,Non-Laptop Briefcases,Briefcases,Laptop/Business Cases,Luxury Briefcases,Attaches & Briefcases,Tumi,Alpha

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Monday, November 21, 2011

A Luggage Reviews Look at Executive Travelers' Luggage Preferences

!: A Luggage Reviews Look at Executive Travelers' Luggage Preferences

For the person who appreciates quality above all else, here's a look at some upscale luggage items. If price is not your first consideration, if you care more about quality of design and construction, you will appreciate the Briggs & Riley, Hartmann, Travelpro and Tumi brands. In the eyes of owners, some luggage really does surpass other luggage, even luggage with a very good reputation. Owners of the above mentioned luggage brands don't necessarily agree on good, better, best, so Luggage Reviews will simply look at them in alphabetical order.

As regards construction and practicality of design, Briggs & Riley has found some very loyal customers. The fact that Briggs and Riley offers packing cubes is much appreciated by frequent travelers. Packing cubes are a huge help in keeping clothes organized and as wrinkle free as possible.

Briggs and Riley luggage is super light weight and built to last, but its color choices are limited. Commercial luggage identifiers or personally crafted ones may have to be added for easier identification on the luggage carousel.

As regards price, a 20" Carry-on Superlight Upright can be found for about $ 320.00. There is also a 22" Baseline Carry-On in the same price range. Briggs and Riley's trump card has to be its Lifetime, no questions asked, warranty!

Hartmann luggage also has its loyal fans. Possibly they're impressed by the variety in construction materials and the thoughtful interior detailing. Hartmann Luggage is made to last. It's not only durable but also attractive and easily spotted on the luggage carousel. Here's what you find in their 20" Mobile Traveler Spinner:
Exceptional 360 degree four-wheel rotational movement for simple and effortless movement Telescoping two-stage handle that locks at 37 inches and 41 inches and provides comfortable gliding Main compartment packing area with two zippered side pockets and padded tie-down straps to hold garments securely Front hidden magnetic slash pocket for easy access to travel documents newspaper, etc.The removable hanging travel kit with mesh zip pockets and elastic Storage area for organizing toiletries includes an all-purpose drawstring bag, waterproof zip pouch and luggage tag. One feature not often found is the addition of the exclusive Global Recovery System(TM), which helps reunite owners with their lost luggage.

The $ 475.00 price tag for the above 20" Mobile Traveler Spinner compares with $ 695.00 for the Tweed 22" Expandable Mobile Traveler and $ 995.00 for the Belting Leather collection 22" Deluxe Mobile Traveler. There is also a 19" Carry on Wheeled Tweed at $ 550.00. The Luxe Collection is especially classy looking. Without doubt,this is not inexpensive luggage, but owners claim it's worth every penny.

Airline personnel use Travelpro. In the eyes of Luggage Reviews that is a great endorsement. Given the nature of their job, airline personnel give their luggage a good workout. Still, they praise Travelpro's light weight and its durable construction.

One reviewer says, "It looks nice, is durable, and best of all, it is manufactured to fit in the overhead bins. I rarely send a tavelpro to checked baggage."

As a rule, when it comes to traditional 'checked' luggage with wheels, don't skimp on quality. This is the luggage you entrust to the airline, after all. You have no idea what adventures it must endure once it disappears from view behind those black rubber slats. Here, too, Travelpro has a good reputation. A Travelpro Crew 7 Rollaboard can be had for between $ 200.00 and $ 400.00. Shop around.

Finally, theTumi line of fine quality luggage. Founded in 1975, Tumi has become a leader in luxury travel Accessories. It is, without doubt, one of the brands of choice for the discerning traveler worldwide. Tumi's commitment to design excellence, functional superiority and technical innovation has resulted in great loyalty among its owners.

Tumi uses only the finest materials in its skilled production of premium quality travel Accessories. Look for the Luxe Townhouse Collection and the Tumi classics Alpha Collection.

One reviewer says, "I first discovered Tumi when I was in college and about to embark on a summer trip to Europe. My father was horrified at spending 0+ on a suitCase. Fast-forward ten years and it is now the only brand he'll buy. It's really the most durable luggage out there. I've added a few more pieces on my own and I truly can't imagine using anything else. Count me firmly in the Tumi camp."

For price comparison the Tumi Alpha Continental 20" carry-on sells for $ 595.00.

Always consider the possibility that an item may have to be checked through and may not be handled with kid gloves along the way. Frequent travelers undoubtedly will fare better, if they don't skimp on quality.

A Luggage Reviews Look at Executive Travelers' Luggage Preferences

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Thursday, November 17, 2011

Tumi Alpha Bravo Business McNair Slim Brief Case,Black,one size

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Brand : TUMI | Rate :

| Price : $255.00
Post Date : Nov 18, 2011 01:22:26 | Usually ships in 24 hours

Alpha Bravo NcNair Slim BriefStyle 22611

Measures 12" x 16" x 3"
Fits laptops up to 15"

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Friday, October 28, 2011

RATATAT -Bob Gandhi

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Thursday, April 21, 2011

tour With the New Tumi Luggage

!: tour With the New Tumi Luggage

One of the most beloved premium lines of luggage has u PDAted their collection. We all know the airlines have become very accurate on the weight of baggage. They are charging for Cases that weigh more that the maximum they allow. Many are charging for Cases over fifty pounds. You will need to check with the airline you are using, because the separate carriers have separate rules and regulations. Frequent flyers have been requesting lighter weight bags from the premium manufacturers. And now Tumi luggage is now lighter weight because of improved materials, construction and comprehensive design. Because many of the older pieces of luggage were heavier, this is a question for anything who does not wish to pay a surcharge. Luggage manufacturers have been trying to comply with these new regulations and offer the consumer the same good potential but with less weight. Of course, Tumi is still gift their institution designed Components. This makes their new Alpha line more reliable, durable and highly functional.

There are other improvements as well for the busy travelers. The styles are less structured and more comfortable to hold. There's luxurious leather trim throughout each and every design. Each piece of luggage comes with a Tsa composition lock. This is the only lock permitted at Us airports. Tsa safety personnel have a devotee key that will open the lock. This way they can open your bag if it is deemed necessary.

Each bag also has the leather monogram rectangular plaque sewn on the front of the bag. Your bag can be monogrammed for a permanent way of identification. Monograms are not precisely removed, and are a great way to say, "that's my bag!" at busy airport and train terminals. No one can claim that is their bag, when the initials do not match. This is an important feature because roughly all of the airports do not check baggage claim receipts on the way out of the airport. Many bags do look alike, and monogramming provides you with instant and permanent identification.

We are aware that over three million bags are lost in transit every year. Some may be left in hotels and taxis. Many cannot be returned because they lack permissible identification. Each piece of Tumi luggage has it's own leather identification tag where your name and address can be located inside. These buckle on to the bag securely. Tumi also offers their Tracer schedule to reunite you with your lost luggage. Each bag has a unique 20-digit private product registration whole printed on a special metal plate that is permanently affixed to every bag. Once you register your product with the Tracer program, it is entered into their database with your name and address. When the man who finds your lost bag calls the free worldwide variety hotline number, Tumi will get a hold of you and contribute you with data on how you can arrange for the bags return. This luggage has been designed for style and incorporates advances in technology that creates the excellent bag for the busy menagerial and frequent traveler.

tour With the New Tumi Luggage

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Thursday, April 7, 2011

Tumi Alpha T-Pass Medium Capacity Laptop Brief 026145DH,Black,one size

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| Price : $345.00 | Post Date : Apr 08, 2011 06:40:34
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Traveling with your laptop just got easier. This new T-Pass computer brief is designed to meet TSA checkpoint friendly requirements, which allow you to go through security without removing your computer from the case*. The split-opening case, which is made from Tumi's signature ballistic nylon, must be packed appropriately to ensure an unobstructed scanning of your computer. (*The TSA reserves the right to ask anyone to remove a computer from its case, or re-screen any laptop or case.) Other features include removable accessory pouch and numerous organizer pockets.

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