Governments and Restaurants
Ningefurahi kama baadhi ya mawazo ya wasomaji katika baadhi ya hizi makala zinazohusu Afrika mashariki zingetafsiriwa kwa lugha ya kiswahili kama jina la jarida lilivyo. Hii inasaidia "Kuwezesha Sauti yako Kusikika" kwa usahihi na kwa watu wengi zaidi.
I like the story about governments and restaurants. The question is, Are the fcustomers including the frogs any better than the managers of the restaurants?
From what the article says, it seems that the customers, even though complaining are still content with the culture of managers. It is suprising that it is the managers who are expected change, and actually some have changed and are working hard. What about the people themselves, those who are hungry and angry? Why dont they just stop paying the bribes so that there is no incentive for the bad managers? Why dont they just boycot eating as it has been the cases where people felt the need to do so in past? A few deaths? Yes, malnutrition? that is also obvious and innevitable but a worth price to pay for the future generations. Why dont these people remember the few brave customers who refused the promises and even boycotted to eat bad and smelling food in South Africa, Angola, Liberia, Zaire and other palces?
I think the customers, especially those making the loudest noises in the media, workshop and seminars, and the frogs at the edge of the restaurant have found an alternative to get better food. That is why they have the energy to make the noises about the poor quality of food. I feel some go to neighbouring restaurants for better services for their children. I do not blame them, as one of them once retorted "..... You are right my friend, but I cannot dare see my child just about to be eaten by a greedy crocodile and do nothing, just because I am a believer in the rights of animals!
In my opinion, I may not want to continue blaming the managers and waiters at the restaurant, but the customers.......... amka kumekucha is the right slogan then. and then tuache kupiga kelele kwa kiingereza kwa vile siyo wengi wataamka, na wale watakaosikia wamekwisha amka lakini wanaenda kwenye migahawa mbadala.
Japhet Makongo Is an Independent Consultant, Ubunifu Associates, Dar es Salaam