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<title>Act4Africa RSS Updates</title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org</link>
<description>All the latest stories from Act4Africa</description>
<lastBuildDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:56:35 GMT</lastBuildDate>
<language>en-us</language>
<image>
<url>http://192.168.0.100/www.act4africa/images/Act4Africa.png</url>
<title>Act4Africa</title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org</link>
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<atom:link href="http://www.act4africa.org/stories-rss.aspx" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
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<title><![CDATA[ Strictly Swing4Africa Fundraising Dance Event ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/sponsored-events.aspx#article-241</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/sponsored-events.aspx#article-241</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <b><i>Event Date: 24/02/2012 19:30:00</i></b><br>A charity night of swing inspired entertainment held at KP CLUB, POCKLINGTON, in support of 'Act4Africa'

Canapés and welcome drink
Jazz Band
Fireworks display 
Raffle
Vintage clothes display

Friday 24th February 2012, 19.30-13.00
Venue: KP Country Club Pocklington York (UK) YO42 1UF
Tickets £18 per person

Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/Swing4Africa ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. of course Not ALL Teachers are Girls!! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=32#article-240</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=32#article-240</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ We love the Girl Effect but we would also love to see the 'Bloke Effect' in Africa too!

In 2011 we saw an amazing Teachers trip lead by Andrew Rochford (one of our UK Leadership Team) but as Andy himself said of the self-starting teachers  "I pretty much left them to it!". Andy stepped in at the very last minute when Kathy Smedley (herself a retired teacher) and founder of Act4Africa, became far too ill to go with them as originally planned.

What all the teachers achieved and the impact... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ VCT Testing Success in Africa ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-239</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-239</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The Teams out in the field (Africa-side) are the focus of the fund-raising and support generated by the UK based offices, as this is where Act4Africa really makes a difference; in villages and communities, with families, leaders, women and children and many, many other places where our preventative message about HIV and AIDS can be heard.

Here is a 'hot-off-the press' report directly from one of our teams involved in VCT testing;

"This month the voluntary counselling and Testing was very... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ What We Have Achieved is Remarkable ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=28#article-159</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=28#article-159</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Act4Africa's history over the past 10 years has been colourful and exciting.

Sometimes there is no better way than to capture the essence of that vibrant life-force than to take the images and photographs of the people and places and put their story to music.

Over the years, we have done this many times and have collated some of these 'chapters' in the life of Act4Africa here for you to enjoy.

What we have achieved in the past decade is remarkable - but only with the dedication of the... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Simon & Beck Rodda ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=33#article-235</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=33#article-235</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ It's not only the lives of thousands of young Africans that we impact but also those from the UK who have chosen to come with us on expeditions to Africa.
 
We were thrilled to hear news recently of our second Act4Africa wedding as the lovely Beck (nee Rogers) married Simon Rodda. 

Beck went on an expedition with us to Kasese in Uganda several years ago and said:
"because Act4Africa shaped me quite a lot I had always wanted to find a partner who had shared the same experience".  Then she met... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Altrincham Girls hear about "Girl Effect" ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=32#article-237</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=32#article-237</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Act4Africa recently presented a series of three daily assemblies to all the year groups at Altrincham Girls Grammar school around the theme of the "Girl Effect" challenge. 

Act4Africa had been selected as one of only a handful of charities globally to take part in the challenge which is sponsored by Nike through the  Global Giving platform. 

During the month of November the online challenge raised nearly $1000 towards our project with the Ugandan Girl Guides Association to give brighter... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ DONATE STRAIGHT AWAY ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-227</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-227</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Donate NOW and help get Act4Africa on the BIG GIVE and DOUBLE your donation . . . 
 >> C L I C K - H E R E 

We need as many people as possible to support us as we can maximise your generosity for our Christmas 2011 appeal ...  We have from the 5th of December 2011  until the 9th of December 2011 so please dig deep! :0) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ World AIDS Day  - 1st December ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-231</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-231</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Every year Act4Africa is proud to be part of World AIDS Day - no more so than in  2011.

In Africa we provide crucial education and stigma reduction support in communities blighted with AIDS and HIV. Much of the feedback we receive is that this is one of the key needs for people who are struggling with prejudice, men, women and children alike.

Why stigma?
There have been many medical advances in the 30 years since HIV was first identified, but stigma remains the biggest barrier to people... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ BIG GIVE - Date for Your diary!! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-232</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-232</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 25 Nov 2011 06:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Thank you, Thank you to all of you who pledged money for the  BIG GIVE
 from the 5th of December..

Now we need you to ACT on the pledge and your donation will be DOUBLED.

Set a reminder on your phone for the 5th of December 2011
Put it in your diary, on your wall planner at work .. there is a relatively short window of opportunity (of a few days) to donate and follow-up on that pledge you may have made to us.

Put the link below in your website favourites ready for the Big Give day, or... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Act4Africa Kasese Team make an Impact ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-234</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-234</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 11:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A few more encouraging words from the field work out in Africa - and a reminder that funds we raise really do impact Africans on the ground. In the attached picture I counted over SIXTY people!

It seems that our established (drama based) systems using the core initiatives that fuelled Act4Africa over 10 years ago are still very relevent today.

Visual and dramatic presentations, with elements of audience participation and humour are still drawing crowds and helping to make a receptive... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The Clock is Ticking ... ! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=32#article-229</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=32#article-229</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Oct 2011 16:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Spare 3 mins and take a look at this brilliant video about the "Girl Effect" http://www.girleffect.org/video

We hooked up with "Girl Effect" because we think this is an amazing global movement which brings together many of the elements we have been working on over the years to reduce the effects of poverty. 

We really value and need your support to spread the word on Facebook or Twitter to your friends to tell them about the our "Girl Effect"  project and encourage them to spare £6.50 ($10)... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Patient Services & Health Education - a report ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-230</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-230</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 Oct 2011 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ This year Act4Africa has had some medical elective placements in Africa and we thought you may be interested in reading a small extract from a comprehensive reflective report by Katie Stout [A comparison of HIV patient services and health-education in the United Kingdom and Uganda]. Katie visited Uganda with Kavita Patel in the Summer of 2011.

===

"The two-week placement at University Hospital Birmingham was undertaken, mostly, in the HIV outpatient department clinics, spending time with... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Thunderwalk - fancy a Team Challenge? ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/sponsored-events.aspx#article-221</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/sponsored-events.aspx#article-221</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Sep 2011 06:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <b><i>Event Date: 12/05/2012 06:00:00</i></b><br>Global Adventure Challenges are proud to launch ThunderWalk – a brand new Open Challenge event for the charity sector! Taking place in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park in May 2012, ThunderWalk is a tough 54 mile trek, the challenge being to complete the route within 24 hours.

Some History
For the past 3 years, Global Adventure Challenges have organised 24 hour trekking events on a bespoke level for a handful of clients. Not only are 24 hour endurance events VERY popular, they also... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Significant new HIV/AIDS treatment data ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=31#article-193</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=31#article-193</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 16 Sep 2011 09:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Significant new HIV/AIDS treatment data

Results announced recently by the United States National Institutes of Health show that if an HIV-positive person adheres to an effective antiretroviral therapy regimen, the risk of transmitting the virus to their uninfected sexual partner can be reduced by 96%.

"This breakthrough is a serious game changer and will drive the prevention revolution forward," said Michel Sidibé, executive director of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Kasese Team - Report (September 2011) ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-219</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-219</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 08 Sep 2011 08:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ "It was amazing to (work in) schools -  all and every one said Act4Africa teaching is very helpful. 

While at Nyakakindo -  a girl we had educated at a youth camp during the holidays of May testified she had received useful teaching when Act4Africa taught at that camp, she had learnt to delay sex until she got through her education to highest peak of a Degree in medicine. 

Wow it is very interesting and strengthening to hear. 

We will continue in the venture.
 
The Kasese team is very... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Teachers trip August 2011 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-216</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-216</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Aug 2011 06:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Didn't they do well!!? 

Why not follow in their footsteps in 2012 and do something amazing with some of your vacation time. 

We have 2 brilliant opportunities for teachers or student teachers to use their skills in Ugandan schools next year. If you have 2 weeks either at Easter or in the Summer break then check out the details at ... Teachers Expeditions (click to join our exciting team for 2012) ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. a place very close to my heart ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-210</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-210</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Aug 2011 05:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ As usual I had got to a point where I realised suddenly.... There are way too many clothes in my wardrobe!! 

I thought this time round, instead of chucking it in a local charity shop, I would raise some funds specifically for Act4Africa.

I knew of a local vintage market that happens every month and I asked the girl in charge if a friend and I could have a few stalls to raise money for the charity Act4Africa. They were more than willing, and I was also able to involve a well known Cardiff... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The Girl Effect - Unique Potential ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=32#article-224</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=32#article-224</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Aug 2011 16:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I have been very excited and moved by a brilliant video clip from the Girl Effect. 

Click >> Here  to see the video for yourself.

Over the years it has become more and more obvious to us that one of the key groups in the struggle for good health in Africa are young girls and women. For some of the reasons outlined in the video they are impacted not only by their life situation in poverty but also by their lack of a voice. 

We have gradually been refining our Act4Africa delivery programmes... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The Girl Effect - Unique Potential ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=16#article-211</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=16#article-211</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Aug 2011 03:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ This month I have been very excited and moved by a brilliant video clip from the Girl Effect. 

Click >> Here  to see the video for yourself.

Over the years it has become more and more obvious to us that one of the key groups in the struggle for good health in Africa are young girls and women. For some of the reasons outlined in the video they are impacted not only by their life situation in poverty but also by their lack of a voice. 

We have gradually been refining our Act4Africa delivery... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. I hope our paths cross again ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-213</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-213</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 05 Aug 2011 13:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 12

Hi all,

Sorry there was no blog yesterday, the internet was down at the hotel, so you get 2 blogs for the price of 1 tonight!

Yesterday we had a great day at school after the really hard time we had on Wednesday! 
We were firm and stood our ground with both the children and the staff. We had a class of about 52 all day, and we set out our expectations at the beginning of the day!  The children behaved much better and Sam who had missed his playtime the day... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ It's the Final Countdown! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-212</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-212</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 05 Aug 2011 12:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 12

Hi everyone,

Sorry for there being no blog yesterday, the internet here is very unpredictable! 

Yesterday, we had a very mixed day. We started the day at school and saw a very different side to discipline. Alicia and I were waiting for our class to arrive after their morning cleaning routine, when we looked around the corner to see a large group of children being systematically beaten with a stick. It was really disturbing and even more so when the children... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ A Significant Difference ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-214</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-214</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 2011 12:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 10

Hi all,

What a day! 

School is very disorganised yet again today which left us feeling slightly disheartened. We are supposed to have 2 groups of 40 for an hour each and then both groups together for an hour.
We had planned a great lesson today. (even if we do say so ourselves)
We had planned that within the the 1st 2 hours we would build matchstick men with pipe cleaners and then the children woiuld put them in different poses and draw them. This was done as... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Pretend Wedding! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-208</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-208</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 10

Hi All,

Just a short and sweet one today as I've only just managed to post yesterdays!

We had another great day in school today. The Headteacher has asked us to stay for a month (eh, no! I miss my Tomato Ketchup too much!).

We have spent the morning writing letter to the children at St Mary's, so hopefully we will have some pen pals up and running. The children were so excited to hear from the children in England and learn about their lives. 

At lunch time I... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Sorry for the delay ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-207</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-207</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 2011 04:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 10

Sorry there was no blog last night, t'internet was down, as was the electricity and most other things around here! Anyway, here it is:

Tuesday 2nd August

Teachers Expedition - Day 9

Hi all,

I hope you are all well and enjoying the sunshine in England. We started the day with rain, yet again! However, never fear because the sun came out while we were teaching in the tin roofed classroom - think of a pressure cooker and that's how it feels!

Today we feel like... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Back to School ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-205</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-205</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 8

Hi All,

I am pleased to say that today we are back at school.  

When we arrived at school, the classroom was rather disorganised. When I asked Agnes, the class teacher, what had happened, she said that the children had become quite disruptive during the strike. It took us a while to settle the children today, however it was no problem.

The children began to write their own version of Three Billy Goats Gruff. This was quite a challenge for them as they are not... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Monday Monday! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-206</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-206</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 8

Hi all,

Well we were back in school this morning, after a lovely weekend in Jinja! We had a full class of 80 and boy did we feel the difference today! We definitely take our hats off to the teachers over here. Teaching so many children in such a small space, with limited resources is really difficult, but we are still enjoying it immensely.

Today we taught the children the song "she'll be coming round the mountain." this was an event in itself, as they couldn't... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ What  a ... Cruise ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-203</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-203</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 31 Jul 2011 12:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 7

Hiya  bloggers. Glad you are following us!!! 

We had a great night sleep after yesterday's adventure!!!

Today we went to church which was fantastic!! We have got some great pics from Church but cant get them on at the min.!! It was an experience!! Really great!!

We went on a motorbike to the church which was an fantastic!! We stayed for an hour and then Claire and myself got a motorbike together!! OOhh how risky!! Well it was actually 3 of us on the motorbike.... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ We got a bit 'ratty' today! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-204</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-204</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 31 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 7

Hi all.

Wow! What a day. We got up this morning and got some pikis to Church -a motorbike taxi (don't tell my mum!). We spent 2 hours at Jinja Christian Fellowship Church. There was A LOT of singing! Andy had to get up on stage and do a speech. While Andy was on stage, I saw something in the corner of my eye run across the floor... 

Alicia and I both screeched rather loudly, shouting, 'mouse!' Then it ran in front of us and we realised it was actually A RAT! We... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ White Water Rafting! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-218</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-218</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jul 2011 13:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 6

Hi all,

Well it's our first weekend here, and what an adventure Miss Barton and I have had today...we went white water rafting on the River Nile... and it was FANTASTIC!

We did an all day trip and set off at 8.30am this morning, and returned early evening.  We were both a bit nervous last night and were thinking the worst, however we had the best time ever!

We were clever and chose our team wisely. We went for one with lots of strong men in, so that when we... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Good News! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-202</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-202</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jul 2011 08:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 6

Hi all.

We have good news today; the strike has been delayed for one month while discussions take place, so we will be back in school on Monday! 

We have really missed being in school and seeing the children working hard.

We have been marking the children's work and it's really interesting to read about the types of tasks the do during their day. They start the day at 7.30am when they sweep the compound and the classrooms and slash the grass. 

Who needs a... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Malawi project update - JULY 2011- REPORT ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-215</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-215</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jul 2011 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ News from the field:

During this month me and Tumaini Orogenes (senior trainer from Tanzania) we had a good time of observations of level 2 following the ToT we had last month with the team from Kauma. In this team I have seen improvements  in many areas than before  this is to say that  we had no adjustments of time venue as well as dates. The fact of the matter is that this was the big encouragement to me since Tumaini was here to learn how to do the ToT of which I strongly  believe that... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Health Professionals - Electives 2012 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/join-the-medical-electives.aspx#article-201</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/join-the-medical-electives.aspx#article-201</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jul 2011 01:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <b><i>Expedition Date: 01/01/2012</i></b><br>Health Professionals

The health sector in Uganda is challenged by a number of factors that present significant obstacles to health service delivery, including: critical shortages and unbalanced distribution of qualified health workers at all levels of the public health system; shortages and irregular supply of essential drugs and medical supplies. 

Whether you are a health professional on a career break or retired let us design you a placement to suit your level.

Placements are "tailor... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Teachers Expeditions - Jinja, Uganda ]]></title>
<link></link>
<guid></guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 23:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <b><i>31/03/2012</i></b><br>[DATES FROM THE 31st MARCH - 14th APRIL 2012 ]
or
[DATES FROM THE 28th JULY - 11th AUGUST 2012 ]

This is an amazing experience for student teachers or qualified teachers.

As a qualified and experienced teacher herself Kathy Smedley (co-founder of Act4Africa) knows the immediate impact this kind of life-changing trip can have. 
Act4frica has worked with and cultivated strong relationships in the schools within Jinja for the past decade. 

Kathy herself admits,
"This is a character-building... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Our best day yet!!! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-199</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-199</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 13:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 5

Our best day yet!!! 

Hi all, hope you're all ok! 

The strike with the teachers is still on but because we have come from England we went in to school today. Some children came in but some stayed at home, so we only had about 30 children today which was lovely (just like a class at home). Children from other classes came into school and stayed in their classroom but with no teacher as they are still on strike. 

We dont know what has happened with the strike at... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Teachers Expeditions - Jinja, Uganda ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/sponsored-events.aspx#article-157</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/sponsored-events.aspx#article-157</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 11:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <b><i>Event Date: 31/03/2012</i></b><br>[DATES FROM THE 31st MARCH - 14th APRIL 2012 ]
or
[DATES FROM THE 28th JULY - 11th AUGUST 2012 ]

This is an amazing experience for student teachers or qualified teachers.

As a qualified and experienced teacher herself Kathy Smedley (co-founder of Act4Africa) knows the immediate impact this kind of life-changing trip can have. 
Act4frica has worked with and cultivated strong relationships in the schools within Jinja for the past decade. 

Kathy herself admits,
"This is a character-building... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ FUNDRAISERs of the MONTH (July / June) 2011 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-194</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-194</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ This has been a bumper month as our supporters have got out there and helped to raise some much needed funds for us.

We salute you!

These have ranged from the relatively simple to the more extreme. We cannot thank you all enough as every penny raised goes to help some of the most vulnerable in our world. 

Rhian Cheyne got stuck in and organised a vintage and second hand clothes sale
Her father went the extra mile literally and completed the cycle ride he started last year from Lands End to... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ It's Friday! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-200</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-200</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 07:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 5

Hi all,

We've had another disappointing day today, however we have made the most of a day off school. We got up early to find out that the strike over pay was still on. 

Cathy and Claire B were able to go into school to teach today as they are working in a school in the town centre and lots of children are still sent to school regardless of the strike. The children are mainly taught by prefects instead. 

Our school, however is a village school so all the... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Caterpillar to Butterfly ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-197</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-197</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 4

Hi All,

Well today the teacher's in Uganda were on strike over pay conditions, and we really don't blame them. They teach large classes for long hours for a ridiculous £67.50 a month! Of course we showed our solidarity and went on strike too!

We've just watched the news and the Headteacher from our school at Main Street was on defending his staff etc!  

We were very proud!

We heard an amazing story and met a very special little girl called Mikisha. She was 5... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Electives - Worthwhile and Stimulating ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-198</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-198</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Young Trainee Doctors enjoy Jinja Hospital

This month we welcomed back Katie Stout and Kavita Patel, 4th year medical students at Birmingham Medical School from their medical electives in Jinja, Uganda.

They both enjoyed the challenge enormously and could not praise Act4Africa highly enough for the level of support and attention to detail provided both prior to, during and after their electives. 

Kavita was working in the Children's Unit at Jinja Hospital and was shocked at just how basic... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Amazing and Selfless ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-192</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-192</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jul 2011 10:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 4


Today has been a disappointing day. 

For the first time in Ugandan history, the teachers have been on strike. I really don't blame them though. The teachers here teach from 7.30am - 5pm for £69 a month. Ridiculous. However, this means our teaching has come to a standstill for today. We are really disappointed. As things stand, we are not teaching tomorrow either, however we are drawing up a plan if the teaching doesn't start up again on Monday. 

Our time here... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Wake Up Shake Up ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-195</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-195</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jul 2011 09:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 3

Well hello, ooh we've done 3 days of teaching and it feels like a lot longer!!!

The children are great, we have been doing the "We're going on a bear hunt" an its great doing all the actions with the children. We actually went on a bear hunt outside which was funny. I pretended to be the bear and they all ran away!! hee hee!! 

I can't believe I'm saying this but even though we do Wake up Shake Up every day we love it!! The children really love "Ooh e ooh aar... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ I've Been Tangoed! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-191</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-191</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jul 2011 08:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 3

Hi everyone,

I hope everyone is well and enjoying the sunny weather - thanks Jo for pointing out that it was raining here and sunny there! This evening, we decided to cool down after a busy, hot day in the local pool. We had been sat down for 10 minutes when the sky burst and the largest raindrops ever decended on us! 
Typical!

I am however getting a lovely tan; it's not from the sun, but from the orange dust off the ground. I'm turning oranger and oranger!... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Absolutely Blown Away ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-190</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-190</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jul 2011 11:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 2

Hi all,

It's good to see so many people joining the blog, thank you for your lovely messages!

After another early start (yes I am tired already!), we set off in our rickety van to school. We were greeted by lots of happy, smiley faces. We stepped off the bus and started teaching at 8.30am. The children had already done one hour of cleaning in school - I like the idea of Poppy and David sweeping the floor before I arrive to school!

Our first lesson was to design... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Humble and Obedient ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-196</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-196</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jul 2011 10:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 2

Hi all,

We've had a good day teaching P3 at Main St Primary School, in Jinja. We had 45 pupils today which was half the amount we had yesterday. This was due to the fact that some pupils had stayed at home because of Mock Exams. 

We taught them our version of Head, Shoulders Knees and Toes, as they had taught us their version the day before. They seemed to enjoy this, as ours was much faster!!!!

We can't believe that they like our singing, especially as we have... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Shanty villages & Red Roads ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-189</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=30#article-189</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Teachers Expedition - Day 1

The Mancunicans have arrived in Uganda. You can tell because - 
IT'S RAINING!

We had an early start this morning, we were up before the breakfast was ready. We headed off to school at 7.30. Budonda Primary School (also known as St Stephen's) is a beautiful drive away. We drove through shanty villages and up red roads. 

On our arrival we realised we were working on Ugandan time, the headteacher hadn't arrived! 

When we figured out which class we were teaching,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Medical Electives - Uganda - 2012 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/join-the-medical-electives.aspx#article-22</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/join-the-medical-electives.aspx#article-22</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 08 Jul 2011 05:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <b><i>Expedition Date: 01/01/2012 00:15:00</i></b><br>Act4Africa offer general clinical opportunities or unique clinical experience in Uganda

NOTE: All start dates and duration are by personal arrangement and electives can be "tailor made" to suit your own medical interests or speciality

The practice of medicine in foreign countries is starkly different to that in the UK. 

In poorer countries, medical care is expensive and often patients can't afford treatments. As well as gaining experience in the medical field you wouldn't have been able to... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Join a Short Term Drama Expedition ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/join-a-short-term-expedition.aspx#article-18</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/join-a-short-term-expedition.aspx#article-18</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Jul 2011 18:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <b><i>Expedition Date: 30/06/2012 06:00:00</i></b><br>Ideally suiting Gap Year students:

A two week expedition to  Kasese, Uganda doing  HIV / AIDS Performing Arts based Community Youth Work.

After a weekend  training /orientation course in the UK  you will fly to Entebbe, Uganda on the equator by the shores of Lake Victoria. You will then travel overland deep into rural Africa to the sleepy town of Kasese which sits at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Working with our friendly young Act4Africa local team you will be serving in communities,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ And so it begins... Small Charity Week 2011 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=22#article-186</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=22#article-186</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Jun 2011 09:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ And so it begins... Small Charity Week 2011 

Small Charity Week kicks off this morning as we take to the street with an audacious campaign to get everyone behind the small charity sector. The I Love Small Charities Pledge is an opportunity for anyone, wherever they are, to sign up to find out more about small charities and how they can help our sector to thrive.

We want people everywhere to pledge to do something to help out a small charity between now and Small Charity Week 2012 (yes,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The Big Bike Ride for Act4Africa! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-185</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-185</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 18 Jun 2011 18:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ 1700 Ft of Climbing, 4 Wipe Outs and a Substitution – The Big Bike Ride for Act4Africa!

On Saturday afternoon we were all staring out the window as the rain streamed down in stair rods thinking, "Swimming? Canoeing? Anything but mountain biking in these conditions!" With a bleak weather forecast for the Sunday morning, the idea of taking 3 ten year old boys on a 15.2 mile off road mountain bike ride in North Wales did not fill any of us with joy. I think the exuberance of the lads (Latchen... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Update on Kathy Smedley - 10th June 2011 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-184</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-184</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 10 Jun 2011 10:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Dear friends,

Thank you all so much for your prayers for the Smedleys.

Kathy and Martin met with the doctor yesterday for the results and the fantastic news is that the scan was clear – there are no other tumours. Praise the Lord!

The doctor did confirm however, that the brain tumour has come from the original cancer which means that the tumour is treatable but not curable. Kathy and Martin had been anticipating much worse news than this, and they are in a really good place and praising... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Update on Kathy Smedley - 6th June 2011 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-183</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-183</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 06 Jun 2011 05:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Kathy is doing really well following her operation to remove the brain tumour last week and she is in good spirits. 

Kathy is now home but she will be back in hospital for further tests today (Monday). Kathy and Martin will then meet with the doctor on Thursday this week to review the results from the surgery and discuss what happens next. 

Particular prayers would be valued for Thursday as it is also Kathy's sister's funeral.

Kathy and Martin are so appreciative of all your prayers, love... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Mancunian Pride ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=22#article-182</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=22#article-182</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 14 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In typical Manchester style .. it rained .. but not in our hearts!

There is always a joyfulness about the BUPA Manchester 10k.

I don't know whether that is because close to 38,000 runners are  being bouyed by the good will that is supporting them, or perhaps the  enthusiastic cheers of all the loved ones in the clapping crowd as they line  the streets of our fair city, or the sheer relief of the spectators not to be running!

It's quite an event.

I think too though that it goes deeper than... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Crucial Development ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-181</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-181</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 12 May 2011 09:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Anti-retroviral drugs 'help reduce' HIV transmission

The BBC website reports:

An HIV-positive person who takes anti-retroviral drugs after diagnosis, rather than when their health declines, can cut the risk of spreading the virus to uninfected partners by 96%, according to a study.

The World Health Organization says sexual transmission accounts for 80% of all new HIV infections. Its director general, Dr Margaret Chan, described the announcement as a "crucial development"

Read the full... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Win a Fabulous Brand New Car ... ! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-177</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-177</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 29 Apr 2011 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Great fund-raising news.. !

Would you like to win the fabulous new (and customisable) Fiat 500?

Then enter into Act4Africa's Prize draw!!

Buy tickets from us by following by clicking >> Tickets Here 

*** Tickets are just £2 each ***

The winning ticket will be selected randomly from all sold tickets on 25th October 2011 and tickets are limited so get yours now before they all get snapped up.

You can also help us by forwarding this to all your friends and family.

From all of us at... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Bernard Powers On .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-179</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-179</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Apr 2011 13:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Team Impact News

This month we passed the halfway point stage of our financial year and it was an opportunity to pause and take stock. 
Our brilliant teams in Africa have so far reached over 30,000 young people since September 2010 with our health education workshops and in Malawi. 

Bernard Makupete powers on with training more trainers who are being released into their own communities, as you can see .. >> Here 

Not bad! 

Are we satisfied, what do you think?

We are itching to role out... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Working in the Fridge! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=16#article-180</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=16#article-180</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Apr 2011 08:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Some one misheard me the other day when I said that had been working on the fringe recently. 

Some of you will know that as well as running the charity I am also a professionally trained actor. 

I try to keep my skills up to speed by getting out there from time to time and excising my professional performing muscles. This always feeds back into the work of the charity by ensuring that we are always aware of new techniques and approaches to our dramatically different work in Africa which is... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ You have already been brilliant so far .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=16#article-174</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=16#article-174</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 25 Mar 2011 08:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ If you are reading this it means you are one of those people of goodwill and probably one of our amazing supporters (.. we call you  Angels!). 

The heart of the unique Act4Africa vision is to change 5 million lives; 5 million lives of young people who are disadvantaged through no fault of their own by poverty and disease. 

We have set ourselves a staggering but exciting target

You may have heard that charities are having a tough time and Act4Africa is no exception.
With VAT increases, and... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Minister attends international health conference ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-173</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-173</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Mar 2011 10:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ You don't have to look very far in the news to know that our beloved NHS (National Health Service, UK) is changing.

In many ways there are mixed views on whether this is going to swing towards good or bad, but we know that change is necessary as things never stay the same in any walk of life.

On the horizon, however there is good news!

Act4Africa attended a  prestigious international health conference has been held at the University of Chester's Warrington campus.

Addressed by a number of... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ "The name's Bond .. " ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=5#article-172</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=5#article-172</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Ok let's be upfront. We are not talking about 007 status here but Act4Africa's acceptance to membership of Bond.

Let me explain.

Bond is the UK membership body for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in international development. Established in 1993, Bond has 370 members ranging from large bodies with a world-wide presence to smaller, specialist organisations working in certain regions or with specific groups of people.

What does Bond do?
Bond promotes, supports, represents and,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Life has been a huge roller coaster.. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-171</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-171</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Feb 2011 20:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Hello Friends,

We wanted to write to you to fill you in with where we're at now. And to say a HUGE thank you to you all for all you have been and done for us over the past 2 and a bit years. 

Life has been a huge roller coaster since our return to the UK last April. 
We were hit by the cold - oh my goodness! I thought I'd dressed appropriately to face the shock of the British chill, but quickly realised I needed to add at least another 4 or 5 layers to feel anything close to normal! It took... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Principles for a changing life - S.U.M.O. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=22#article-169</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=22#article-169</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 28 Jan 2011 01:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In the turbulent life of an aspiring charity any good news is welcomed with open arms ... acting as encouragement to fuel enthusiasm for the cause so deep to our hearts.

So you can imagine how we felt when renowned international speaker and personal motivator, Paul McGee shared with us that he was writing about Act4Africa in his new book - it just blew us away!

It isn't just a passing reference either - so how amazing is that?

This is the long awaited second-edition of Paul 's... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Annie Lennox visits Malawi ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-170</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-170</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 Jan 2011 09:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Annie Lennox will visit Malawi to develop and enhance the country's links with Scotland, the Scottish Parliament announced today.

It is the singer's first visit in her role as special envoy for the Scottish branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPASB) which aims to pursue and support parliamentary democracy in partnership with others who share the same ideals.

She will be joined by Scottish Parliament Presiding Officer the Rt Hon Alex Fergusson MSP, during the five day... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Act4Africa - What We Do and Why ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-126</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-126</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 16 Jan 2011 09:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ See what kind of difference your donation can make. This short video (courtesy of our friends at The Message) was filmed with the teams in Africa to help you (our supporters) and us in the UK remember our own personal passion for a resolution to the pain caused by AIDS and HIV in African communities.

When you sign-up to become an  Act4Africa Angel - even just a small, regular monthly donation of £10 is LIFE CHANGING for our teams on the ground - and help us to build on a secure and reliable... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Spririted and Optimistic People ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-166</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-166</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Well, as the excess (for some at least) of Christmas fades into the memory and we look forward to the start of the new year .. maybe it's time to reset your sights on a healthier and fitter January 2011.

For me this is definitely the case, having been side-swiped with an un-expected bought of pneumonia at the end of November which had me in Accident & Emergency at Wythenshawe Hospital (Manchester, UK) just before Christmas this year (2010).

Thankfully now on the road to recovery and with... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Top 20 tips to reach your fundraising target ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-57</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-57</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 26 Dec 2010 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Ideas to help you raise money for a charity like Act4Africa:

To take part in a particular charity adventure, most charities require you to raise a specific amount to cover their costs, as well as having some surplus to go to their organisation. But you should not be happy just to reach the minimum amount, and should set a target that will give the charity a good boost as well as making all your effort worthwhile.
Reaching your target can be difficult, and requires a lot of hard work and... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ People Are Hungry .. Crying Out ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=5#article-163</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=5#article-163</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Dec 2010 01:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A message I think sometimes gets lost in the Act4Africa branding as we strive to achieve, meet our goals, keep the 'wolf' from the door and look professional (even though we are all happy amateurs!) is that we keep people in the fore-front of our minds and we haven't yet become a monolithic, impersonal organisation.

We get feedback all of the time, in fact Helen Miller (one of our Medical Elective volunteers) said it best ...

"Thanks so much Kathy and Martin, and team for all your support... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Kigingo’s Photo Booth ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=29#article-164</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=29#article-164</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Nov 2010 11:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ During the interval at the 10th Year Anniversary event you may have noticed some commotion in the area between the two cocktail bars; laughter emanating from beneath a whirl of brightly coloured fabrics, the clinking of pots & pans, the pounding of the ceremonial drum...perhaps you were drawn in by the crowds and cajoled into being transported, if only for a few brief moments, into the eclectic world of ‘Kigingo's Photo Booth'. 

Here was the chance to be transformed into a Masai warrior,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ I Will Never Forget the Faces of Any of Them ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-160</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-160</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Hassan, an eight-year-old boy, had been an inpatient at the Children's Unit for four weeks already when I arrived in Jinja. He was a known HIV patient, as was his mother, who had been being reviewed in the HIV clinic each month. 

In February 2010, Hassan was diagnosed with TB - the treatment for this illness is lengthy and takes much commitment and determination. Hassan began treatment in March, and continued through until May, when he defaulted and stopped returning to the hospital. He was... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Get out in the countryside, have a wonderful few hours ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-153</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-153</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Nov 2010 18:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Walk of Hope [part 3]

Chris has lost 2 stone of unsightly fat...without amputating anything!

All too soon, we arrived at the pub to test some of the fayre on offer (some more healthy than others). As I watched, impressed at Chris as he opened his backpack and revealed a protein drink for his lunch (just as I was tucking into my large portion of Scampi and Chips) he reminded me that he'd lost 2 stone of unsightly fat over the past few months without amputating anything and that he had helped... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Who is Helen Miller? ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-156</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-156</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Nov 2010 11:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Helen is a 23 year-old, fifth year medical student, studying at Cardiff University. She will graduate in July 2011, "all being well!", she says. 

Her home is in Sussex, where she lives with her parents and sister, plus an array of animals, but currently lives in a rented house near the centre of Cardiff, with five "lovely girls" (Helen's words). 

Helen says, 

"I was brought up in a Christian home, and was baptised at the age of 18. I have always enjoyed working with children and have... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Africa United (the film) - October 2010 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-162</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-162</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 28 Oct 2010 08:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Footprint Films  are the producers of Africa United, a film opening in UK cinemas in 2010 (October) and  would really like you to join us in supporting the film. Footprint ‘aims to produce mainstream, crowd-pleasing pictures that bring to life stories of courage and redemption'. Africa United is directed by Debs Gardner-Paterson who won the Best Director award in the 168 Film Festival in 2008.

Africa United is the story of 3  Rwandan 
 children who find themselves walking to the World Cup in... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ These Beautiful Children Deserve Better ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-158</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-158</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 07 Oct 2010 19:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Medical Elective - Week 4 – Jinja, Uganda

My last five days in  Jinja flew by faster than any others. 

I was well integrated into the Children's Hospital by now, and treated by everyone as one of the fulltime staff - they were shocked when I told them I had only a few days left. My time was filled with lengthy ward rounds, discussions over patients and the writing of discharge summaries- all these things I had got under my belt and was able to do independently. The situation on the wards... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ It is a day that will be forever etched on my heart .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-152</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-152</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Oct 2010 17:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Walk of Hope [part 2]

Max is Still Trying to Work Out How to Overcome the Age Difference between 9 and 23!

We'd only been gone 5 minutes when we heard the first splosh as Rosie dived into the Church lake and ran dripping through the ferns ahead of the group. At least one of us has benefited from intensive fitness training over the past few weeks – you can tell she's a duathlete. The group leaders, Chris and Vicki looked on unimpressed as she raced past them, dived off through the woodlands... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ A Seed of Hope in the Minds of Some ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=28#article-161</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=28#article-161</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Oct 2010 08:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In 2005 we put together this uplifting presentation [set to the music of Robert Miles]. I think it captures the optimism and energy of Act4Africa very well. 

If you look carefully you will see yours-truly on stilts [2001] in various villages, market places and schools playing a ferrocious (and sometimes scary for the African children) Goliath in the replication of the favourite Biblical tale of courage in the face of huge adversity. Once slain by my room mate and a true-life David [Baker], I... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ We have another child on the ward ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-155</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-155</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 Sep 2010 17:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Medical Elective - Week 3 – Jinja, Uganda

Hello from Jinja! 

I am now at the end of my third week in  Uganda - I cannot believe how fast the time is flying by and that I will soon be heading back to the UK. 

I have stayed in the children's hospital for a third week- although this was not my original plan, it has allowed me to be useful! Having taken a few days to get used to tropical medicine itself, it then took a few more days for me to get my brain around the treatment options, but now... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Perhaps my greatest skill ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-154</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-154</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Sep 2010 23:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Medical Elective - Week 2 - Jinja, Uganda

The Second week has ended already- unbelievable how fast the time is going.

Over the weekend, I also worked in the children's ward and I found I was getting used to seeing and diagnosing  malaria ordering blood tests and prescribing medication and discharging patients who were well enough. I decided that having built up this knowledge, I wanted to use it for longer, so instead of moving onto another department of the hospital, I stayed with... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ 'Over the Rainbow' star says "Yes" .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-148</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-148</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 15 Sep 2010 07:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Dani Rayner from the BBC's  'Over the Rainbow' has said a big "yes" to supporting Act4Africa.

The event is part of the 10th Year Celebration of all of the successes of the Altrincham based charity.

Dani was youngest of the hopeful Dorothys.  Dani's greatest achievement so far in her life was being asked to sing "On My Own" from Les Miserables to an audience of over 2,000 at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester (UK) as part of a school prize-giving. 

Danielle's mum says she has always been... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Children are so resilient ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-150</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-150</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 11 Sep 2010 14:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Medical Elective - Week 1 - Jinja, Uganda

Well what an experience the first week has been! 

I am finally getting to grips with tropical medicine in paediatrics, and learning a bit of luganda and swahili to help me get by. 

The funniest thing has been the reaction of the people in Jinja; as I walk along the road to the hospital each morning, kids run out of their houses and gardens shouting "Mzungu!Mzungu!", which means white person, and grabbing my hand or my dress. 
I have also... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ “All in for Walking? Some Boys Allowed!” ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-151</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-151</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 01 Sep 2010 17:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The Walk of Hope [Part 1]

Gosh, what to do, what to do? With each call in to HQ, my friends and  colleagues seemed to be getting more and more frazzed and downhearted. Not  surprising really given that our company is one of the public sector bodies  that is under substantial pressure from government cuts. Luckily, given that I  work in my own space out in the joys of the Cheshire countryside and  spend most of my time at the coalface, helping local companies to, "build  better businesses", I... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Another typical month ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-146</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-146</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ This has been a typical month for our amazing African teams in Uganda, Tanzania and Malawi.  

They have all been battling hard to deliver our workshops and provide HIV counselling and testing to remote villages in conditions which for most of us would prove almost impossible. 

One of the most serious challenges they face is reliable transport. 

Our Tanzania team have recently suffered a road traffic accident through no fault of their own as another minibus careered out of control with... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ On "coming home ... " ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=26#article-145</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=26#article-145</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 20 Aug 2010 10:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ As we effortlessly touched down on home ground I was relieved to see the sun struggling to make its way through the tiny windows of the plane. 

I was returning from an amazing, sunny and successful 3 weeks in Uganda where I had been working on a number of projects for Act4Africa. 

Along with my long time friend Hilary [Hills] we travelled the length of the country, experiencing numerous breakdowns in the process as well as driving through dust storms, the severity of which would bring... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. the journey of a thousand miles .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-147</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-147</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 14 Aug 2010 14:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Act4Africa has some wonderful supporters.

Everyone contributes to the work we do in so many varied and self-less ways.

One such friend of Act4Africa is Dee Peat who contacted us with a dilemma;

Her late husband, Richard, who was a Project Engineer for British Gas for many, many years was an avid Air Miles collector and would religiously log his miles when he collected petrol on business.

However, when Richard passed away it was one of the elements that Dee assumed would take care of... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ “Yes, we really are going!” ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=26#article-143</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=26#article-143</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A story of two friends with one aim – To Make a Difference.

"Wow!" exclaimed Patrick, team manager of the Act4Africa Jinja Team. "42 years. That is surely a long time friend." 

I had just been on the phone to Patrick attempting to finalise details of my forthcoming trip to Uganda. When I explained that Hills [Hillary Smeaton] and I had first met 42 years ago on our first day as students he was almost speechless. 

Much water has passed under the bridge since those carefree student days.... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ FUNDRAISERs of the MONTH (July) 2010 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-144</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-144</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Our 'FotM' for July is our very own Jess Carver, nominated by Martin Smedley our CEO.

Jess has been working in the Act4Arica (UK) office for around four months and in that time has had amazing success with Trust Fund Applications - pulling in thousands of pounds for projects in Africa.

‘'I have worked for Act4Africa since March 2010 after spotting their advert for a fundraiser on a graduate internship website." says Jess.

Then she explains;

For the last two years I have worked as a... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Changing 5 million lives in 5 years! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=25#article-142</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=25#article-142</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ As many of you know, Act4Africa has been active for 10 years and we are proud of having successfully changed 1million lives during that period. However we have always relished a challenge and have now set a goal to change 5 million lives in 5 years.  

How are Act4Africa going to achieve this?
We know from the feedback we get that we have a high quality training programme which is uniquely interactive and which is valued in the communities. We really feel the need to make this training more... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ You can count the seeds in an apple .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-138</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-138</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 20:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ It's been a few months now since David and Charis Baker returned home  from Malawi after serving and equipping the beautiful African  communities in the villages there.

Their story is amazing, encouraging and inspiring to everyone who has ever  harboured a desire to make a difference. Even the small support team in the  Act4Africa office in the UK, along with the Trustees have been thrilled at what   Charis and David have achieved.

All this through prayer, faith, trust, love in action and a... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Information and Hope ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-139</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-139</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 06 Jun 2010 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ "What are Act4Africa doing for people like me?"

That was the challenging question from Dennis, a young AIDS orphan, on the streets of Kasese, Uganda. 

Our amazing Act4Africa Kasese team (Ruth and Alice pictured here) were interacting with mechanics and taxi drivers, delivering messages about staying safe from HIV/AIDS; I was proudly watching how skilled they have become, when this teenager came up to me and stopped me in my tracks.

A week later, our Jinja team were giving out gifts to over... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Leeds students join Walk of Hope ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-140</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-140</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jun 2010 20:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A big thank you and congratulations to the Leeds Metropolitan University Event Management students who put together an event to raise money for Act4Africa's Walk of Hope early in the year, not the brightest of days in the 2010 calendar so far, but everyone remained upbeat and on a high as they took on the challenge of 5.8miles around the very fabulous and stately Harewood House grounds. 

You can see the ISpiTV video clip below, and thanks to Kayleigh Dowson for her involvement in organising... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Bernard is ALMOST on board! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-134</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-134</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 20 May 2010 11:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A huge thank you to all those who have already donated so generously, £825 has been raised so far! However, we really need to reach our target of £1,500 so we have decided to extend the 'Get Bernard on Board' campaign until the end of July 2010. Here's a reminder of what it's all about:

As part of our campaign to reach 5 million lives in 5 years, we want to fund Bernard, a highly skilled Malawian Trainer. He will train 60 other trainers in vital skills to help enable communities to develop... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ New East Africa Regional Manager ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-135</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-135</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 17 May 2010 13:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Act4Africa are thrilled to announce the promotion of Pastor Peter Masereka (Kasese Team Leader) to the newly created role of East Africa Regional Manager.

The new role is going to play a crtitical part in the strategy of quality and consitency for the delivery of our 'experience crafted' health education and Train the Trainer programmes.

Peter brings with him a vast breadth of leadership experience.

Having successfully run the Church in Kasese and been responsible for planting many... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ FUNDRAISERs of the MONTH (May) 2010 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-136</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-136</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 11 May 2010 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Our 'FotM' for May is the very amazing Emily Shenton, nominated by Martin and Kathy Smedley, who received an amazing cheque for over £1600.

Coyotes Bar manager since 2005, Emily has been out to Africa with our Sportstars team trip.

You can see Emily in action on a previous fundraising drive for Act4Africa if you go the Coyotes website and follow the link to their "Good Deeds" section.

I have to be honest, having jumped out of a plane at 1500ft myself, bungee jumping makes me more nervous -... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ As an atheist, I truly believe Africa needs God ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-131</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-131</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010 22:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ It's rare, but sometimes we get a refreshing and honest 'external' prespective on the work we do along with other charities in Africa.

Here is an article from back in 2008 from the prolific Mathew Parris. Often on television and BBC Radio 4, Mathew is in my view an articulate, intelligent and insightful broadcaster and commands some respect.

Act4Africa is a charity based on Christian principles and run by faith-fuelled people; we have no fewer challenges because of this (in fact probably... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Meanwhile, back in blighty ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-133</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-133</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010 07:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Soothing tunes and the opportunity for a great night out are what's in store at this up and coming event [see our website EVENTS section for more]

An Evening with Tim O'Brien and  Kris Drever.

Joining hands across the water are a top American songwriter/instrumentalist  Tim O'Brien (recently toured  with Mark Knopfler) along with Scotland's talented Kris Drever who drags  himself away from a hectic schedule with Lau and our old friends, Drever McCusker Woomble.  This is one of just a... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Bring Bernard on Board! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-130</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-130</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ As part of our campaign to reach 5 million lives in 5 years, can you help us fund Bernard, a highly skilled Malawian Trainer, for a further year? He's already proved himself as a very successful Health Educator and Trainer, and we want to keep up the momentum! We know he can do it, because he's spent the last year doing exactly that and we need him to continue!

But for that to happen, we need to raise £1,500 to cover his salary and some of his associated costs for 12 months. With that,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The  Walk of Hope has started! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-128</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=23#article-128</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The first 120 miles of the 4,162 mile Walk of Hope have been walked! 21 Leeds University students, their friends and other supporters battled against the rain  on March 20th to kick-start our biggest ever fundraising event. And they put the icing on the cake with a fabulous comedy night with African drummers in a cocktail bar in Leeds to thank the walkers the week after the event. 

Click here to watch a video clip of the walk

The Walk of Hope is all about hundreds of us joining together... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Freefalling Fundraiser of the Month (Mar) 2010 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-129</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-129</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 20 Mar 2010 18:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Every so often we like to celebrate the "crazy" ideas you have for supporting the amazing work of Act4Africa.
This month is no exception as we have heard that Antonia (who is due to go out with us on one of our July trips) is considering jumping out of a perfectly serviceable aircraft at 10,000 ft or so to raise money for her favourite charity!

Antonia is the neice of long-standing Act4Africa team member and supporter Angie Tunstall.

Antonia says "I will be going as a volunteer to use my... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ FUNDRAISERs of the MONTH (Feb / Jan) 2010 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-125</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-125</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 14 Feb 2010 16:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Based on the inspirational start to a new year at Act4Africa we decided to run a competition over the next few months.

This will have the motivational title:

"FUNDRAISER of the MONTH"
This month we have two winners, so BIG congratulations to Emma & Alistair, both of whom will receive a personally signed copy of bestselling author (and friend of Act4Africa's) Paul McGee's new book "Self-Confidence" [The remarkable Truth of Why a Small Change Can Make a Big Difference].

Thank you to these... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Self-Confidence - The Remarkable Truth... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=22#article-118</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=22#article-118</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ "Don't look at the size of the mountain. Simply focus on the next part of your journey."

I first met Paul McGee at an Act4Africa team building session back in 2003. We were training the new team for a trip to Tanzania and equiping them with knowledge and physical skills to help them in the project. This included drama, music, African culture, knowledge of HIV / AIDs and, at that time, we had a 'circus skills' session. 
It was my task to show everyone (in the shortest time possible) how to... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Fruit and Flowers ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-119</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-119</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jan 2010 12:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I am sure you are wondering where on earth we have been? 

I must start by offering a BIG apology for our complete lack of blogging over the last few months. I have written a number of articles but never had a strong enough internet signal to upload them, so have had to stick to email updates. However, a restaurant in town has started to offer free wireless access, so I am making the most of such an opportunity, with a coffee and a cool breeze I will fill you in on what's been happening in... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The Best 3 Weeks of my Life! - Kasese 2009 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=21#article-117</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=21#article-117</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 24 Dec 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ This is just a little taster of what we got up to in Act4Africa over the 3 weeks...

Most of the time we were based in the small town of Kasese which is on the very western side of Uganda, where every day we would go to 1 or 2 schools around the area and do HIV teaching and dramas with the children. I loved doing this so much, especially when you realised how little they knew and therefore how much they could learn from us. The children were gorgeous, and definitely my favourite part of being... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Fabulous Art and AIDS ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-111</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-111</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 22 Dec 2009 09:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Art has played a central role in the response to AIDS. From AIDS quilts in America to memory books in Africa, from painting, multi-media and drama to sculpture - AIDS has influenced art and the artistic world. 

Act4Africa has played it's part in the artistic repsonse to the devastating reality of AIDS in Africa using it's artistic roots as inspiration for action. 

For our acknowledgement of the work of all our teams in Africa and our fellow artists around the world on World AIDS Day, 1st... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Putting Our Feet Up ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-112</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-112</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 20 Dec 2009 06:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ During a recent leadership training seminar based in Jinja (Uganda) Peter Masereka  our team leader from Kasese
 (Western Uganda) shocked fellow delegates by telling them his team occasionally worked on Christmas Day.

Peter said "It is a good opportunity to reach the people with our life saving messages as they are gathered in large crowds at that time".

Peter's team are so keen to reach his community with life saving messages that they are even prepared to work when the rest of us may be... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Get into gear for World AIDS Day and Christmas Alternative Gift List! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-116</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-116</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ To celebrate World AIDS Day 2009, and to celebrate Christmas, we're launching our 'Get into Gear Alternative Gift List!'. The aim is to give all our supporters the chance to give or receive a present with a difference this year - an Alternative Gift Certificate for a part of a desperately needed new 4 wheel drive minibus for our Jinja Team. You'll  be giving someone the opportunity to be a very real part (like a tyre!) in the fight against HIV/AIDS!

Anyone who has slipped and slid across the... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Team Managers Meeting - Africa ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-113</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=20#article-113</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Team Managers break new ground

Act4Africa team managers, Patrick Kigongo, Peter Masereka, Jordan Joseck and Frank Jacob from Uganda
 (Jinja and Kasese) and Tanzania (Dar es Salaam) recently gathered together for an intensive two week training session on leadership, finance and management and IT (information technology) skills delivered by Andy Rochford, Martin Smedley and Kathy Smedley. 

This was a first as all the senior staff met and worked together in one location.

A significant result... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Dirty Faced and Smiling ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-115</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-115</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ It was refreshing to remember life back home, and to be blessed with the company of people who know and love us.

Hello friends,
Firstly, an apology. I cannot believe how long it has been since I last wrote and filled you in on what antics we are up to here in the sweltering heat of Malawi

So, November rolls in and with it the thundering refreshing of rainy season. The temperature is oppressively hot. I find myself having a shower about 3 times a day at the moment (when time allows). The hot... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ I will teach you to fish .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-109</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-109</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ To fill you in with the picture: I am presently sat in our hotel room in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. 

It is getting late, and I am in that blurry, heavy, tired stage of the day where I know I should probably go to bed, but getting ready for bed is just too much effort. Besides, the novelty of having internet in our room is just too good to miss out on, and it is only up to speed late at night – so here I am. 

David is sprawled out on the bed, wearily, though happily, watching the qualifying... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Moustache Marathon ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-108</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-108</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 08 Oct 2009 07:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Joe 'Shaves4Africa' .. with help from his Facebook friends.

From time to time we get innovative ideas from our Supporters and many thanks to Joe Richards (and furry friend) for supporting for Act4Africa and it sounds like having loads of fun in the process.

Joe sent us his picture and some 'snapshot' moments from Facebook:

====

"Hello guys! Thanks for joining the moustache marathon group! 

It is great to have you on board. My furry friend is growing well, although there have been calls... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Faith as Small as a Mustard Seed ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=19#article-107</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=19#article-107</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2009 22:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ When Martin (CEO of Act4Africa, the charity I currently work for) asked me to see if there was anything I felt God may be saying to Act4Africa at this time, I felt honoured and privileged to be asked this. We have been going through a very difficult time financially. Lack of finances has, in recent months, become a prison to the charity. We have had to turn down many exciting offers of working together with others. Several African Team members have had to be made redundant, losing their job,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Youth Respond Positively to Prevention Message ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;sub_section_id=4#article-100</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;sub_section_id=4#article-100</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2009 02:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Uganda: Puppet Theatre

Act4Africa has used role play and drama to communicate a sometimes difficult message clearly since it's launch in 2001 and from experience we know the 'visual' arts have a massive impact in getting our important message across.

I know myself too, that any drama in Africa is well received, especially if you wear a ridiculous and eye-catching outfit. 
A silly hat, perhaps. 
If you make yourself 9 feet tall by wearing stilts .. then you are bound to have an attentive... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Any month, any day, any airline … ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-99</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-99</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2009 02:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I was totally surprised to meet Rhiannon Breakey at Manchester Airport  as I joined the queue to check in for the Emirates flight to Nairobi, Kenya on my way to lead the team of UK SportStars for 3 weeks round Kenya and Uganda. 

It was the 2nd of August, a Sunday.

Rhiannon had been on one of our 3 month Overland Act4africa trips in January 2008 and I had last seen her at the reunion nearly a year ago. 
She was seeing off her friend Caroline who had been studying in UK for the past 5 years... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Memory stones … ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-98</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-98</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Eldoret on the edge of the rift in western Kenya is the home to the training camps of the great Olympic long distance runners like Kip Keino. 

Standing at over 8000 ft above sea level  it was a chance to stretch our legs after a long 8 hour journey from  Nairobi and go for a jog at altitude with some of the UK SportStars team. 

We made our way up the dusty road and out of town towards a small hill. 

From here we had a commanding view of the area. 
I picked up a rock which I think is an... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Dirt Roads and Boobies ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-103</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-103</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The sun is shining on a golden warm Saturday afternoon, it has been a long week of Act4Africa training and is so good to be resting today and catching up with all that we have neglected in the busyness.

Today, David, Clare and I went and watched our first observation of some of the trainers we have trained over the last 2 months. I cannot quite express just how exciting it was to see the trainees working so well as a team, and putting into practice all we have been teaching them. 

It was so... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ " .. happy just to be in the real world." ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-95</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-95</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 27 Aug 2009 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ As I gingerly placed one foot in front of the other the pain continued to shoot through my feet.

I knew from past experience that there would be no skin on my left heel and that I would probably loose the nails off at least 2 toes. Why then was I still stumbling along with a grin on my face that would outdo the Cheshire Cat at his happiest? The reason being simply that this was my first "proper" walk in the Lake District since I became ill with breast cancer some months earlier. After hardly... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Coaches' AIDS game is a winner in Africa ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=17#article-97</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=17#article-97</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ SPORTS coaches who traveled to Africa to teach children and adults how to protect themselves from the HIV and Aids epidemic sweeping the continent have described the trip as "unbelievable" and "rewarding".

The team taught a series of workshop and laid on educational games in the slums of Nairobi in Kenya and rural villages in Uganda.

With around 15% of the adults there infected with HIV, the virus that leads to Aids, specialists from Cardiff-base SportStars teamed up with charity Act4Africa... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ But there’s a tree on the left wing  …! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-94</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-94</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Played 6, won 4, 
Drew 1, 
Lost 1 

.. not bad for a bunch of Muzungus playing together in Africa for the first time against the might of the Ugandan Army, the Kenyan Military Police and some very fit school teams. 

We had become used to the fact that it was 32 degrees plus; that the football pitches were rock hard and generally sloping at crazy angles; 

.. but a tree on the left wing,  in the general vicinity of the goal mouth, was something new. 

The local village opposition were adept... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ That old man Arsene Wenger ... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-96</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-96</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2009 13:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ With Graham, (aka G-cat), in goal and some very fit young sports coaches from Sportstars up front as strikers and mid field attack I was able to imagine I was  Rio Ferdinand in defence at centre back as I watched with pride from the rear as they stormed forward. 

However, several games into the tour injury began to take their toll as one by one the SportStars succumbed to the intense heat, rock hard pitches and stomach upsets. 

This meant I was suddenly required to actually run at the... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Let them eat rocks… ! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-101</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-101</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2009 03:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I have been into the some of the worst slums in Nairobi many times over the past few years and seen for myself the awful squalor, poverty and deprivation in places like Kabira. I have become hardened to the worst effects of this but was still unprepared for a shock. 

We had been working as a team in one of the smaller, high density, slums called Maringuini, visiting people in their homes.  

While passing a tiny wooden shop selling groceries I saw small wrapped packets of whitish rocks.... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Good sports off to Africa to battle HIV ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=17#article-93</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=17#article-93</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ SPORTS coaches are heading to Africa to teach children how to protect themselves from the HIV and Aids epidemic sweeping the continent.

With around 5% of the adult population in Kenya and Uganda infected with  HIV  , specialists from Cardiff-based SportStars told the Echo their summer mission could save lives.

A 12-strong team is set to begin a three-week stint next Wednesday [29th].

The private sports coaching company, which works in schools and with after-school and holiday clubs, has... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ They stole my cows! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=19#article-91</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=19#article-91</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ "There is no place on earth which the power of heaven cannot invade!"

Two weeks ago I returned from about one month in Uganda. During the first two weeks of my time there I was training local Ugandan teams on accounts, administration and using spreadsheets, as part of my work for Act4Africa. The first week, I spent in Kasese in western Uganda. One day I was training Pastor Peter and Alice, the manager and administrator there, when a man ran into the office, frantically speaking a language I... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Kenya concern over pill popping ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;sub_section_id=7#article-92</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;sub_section_id=7#article-92</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In a radio advertisement at the centre of a controversy in Kenya, a distraught teenage girl asks for help after having unprotected sex. 

"What shall I do? I'm still in college. What happens to my future, my friends, my family, my life?" she sobs. 

The assistance offered is the emergency contraceptive pill - or morning-after pill. 

The so-called "e-pill", which is also being advertised in popular magazines with a free bookmark, is now the buzz-word in town among young sexually active women.... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ "Turn right after the chicken" ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-90</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-90</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Friends, 

What a fortnight. So much to tell you all about. Firstly, and perhaps most excitingly thank you so much for your prayers and support RE the pilot training. We had an amazing, God favoured and significant two days. We had 16 key leaders from around Lilongwe attend the meeting. It may sound like only a few, but these are the gatekeepers of some really big ministries and organisations. 

They loved the training: the content, style and substance of what we had to offer. 

It made us... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Sports specialists to act in Africa ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=17#article-88</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=17#article-88</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 07:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Celebrity businessman James Taylor backs SportStar coaching with Act4Africa ..

A team of Cardiff-based sports specialists are heading to Africa this summer to help educate children in some of the country's most deprived areas. 

The 12-strong team from SportStars, a company which provides high quality sports coaching for children aged 4 -12, is partnering up with dedicated health education charity Act4Africa to deliver education and behavioural change programmes in an effort to arrest the... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Recycling Cyclist wins prize .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-87</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-87</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Congratulations to Dave Moss - winner of £100's worth of Halford vouchers.

Dave Moss from Dumfries in Scotland is the chuffed winner of the prize draw from our EachOne Counts recycling scheme
Dave tells us " I have raised money in the past for Act4Africa by organising bike races.  I first became aware of Act4africa when a member of my church, Dumfries Baptist Church went to work for them and we helped support her "

Owning half a dozen bikes already, Dave says "I will probably use the... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Part 1  - How Is Africa Affected? ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-89</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=18#article-89</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Sub-Saharan Africa is more heavily affected by HIV and AIDS than any other region of the world. 

An estimated 22 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2007 and approximately 1.9 million additional people were infected with HIV during that year. In just the past year, the AIDS epidemic in Africa has claimed the lives of an estimated 1.5 million people in this region. 

More than eleven million children have been orphaned by AIDS

The extent of the AIDS crisis is only now becoming... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Alice and I did it!! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=14#article-83</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=14#article-83</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 11:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Manchester BUPA 10k run done and dusted AND got the 'T' shirt to prove it.

Alice and I did it !! 

I achieved 54 minutes due to running with two very fast turtles (well .. they were dressed as turtles) but then one 'lost' its shell and so I lost pace between 5 and 7 kmilometers. 

Next time we intend to beat 52 minutes!

Thanks to everyone who sponsored us!! It's not too late if you still want to do so, remember every pound helps us to reach one more person:
See our Just Giving page at... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ I am still glowing .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-85</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-85</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Well my personal best is .. 

1 hour 2 mins and 35 seconds!!! 

I am well chuffed with myself.

I won't say that it was easy ('cos it wasn't!) but  I'm still glowing with the after race buzz, which is great compensation. Actually what kept me going was knowing that so may people had sponsored me to RUN. 

And so I did.

Not bad for a 'GranJan' that had never jogged more a couple of times round the park before February this year.

Roll on next year!

Jan x


It's not too late to congratulate... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ I am now over my target .. ! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-84</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-84</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2009 10:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Well it's almost here and I've been packing the carbs this week. 

Had just one small alcoholic drink all week  and have passed on coffee (except for my Saturday morning 'fix') and have been drinking water like there is no tomorrow, to get hydrated!

The week in Derbyshire well and truly christened my trainers, as I ran through mud and soggy forest. Felt like a real runner though; going off in the morning leaving the others watching breakfast TV in their PJs.

Training has been going pretty... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ I found out what is meant by 'Rainy Season'! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=15#article-82</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=15#article-82</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2009 17:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The last few days have perhaps included some of the most bizarre experiences ever, but all interesting! ...
  
The end of last week was spent trying further to organise my physio programme while I am out here. It is beginning to come together, although is taking time. I applied to the hospital to work there and that was accepted which was great, as I think this may be where the most work is.
  
Having my 'rest and recreation' at the weekend, I had half thought of doing some of the tourist... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Arrived .. and in one piece ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=15#article-79</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=15#article-79</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2009 09:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Anna Ferguson begins an exciting, physiotherapy based medical elective and gets a real taste of Uganda ..

I arrived in Jinja at lunchtime on Tuesday 5th May, after flying from Heathrow, via Nairobi to begin 6 weeks working as a physiotherapist with Act4Africa. 

From my induction, and talking to friends who have been to Uganda, I had a certain idea of what I might expect, but it wasn't until I got here that I realised how different things are. 

After surviving the drive from Kampala - and... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ I could now be very big in Germany .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=16#article-80</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=16#article-80</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2009 16:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Keep calm ... it's not airborne and mainly affects the poor and disadvantaged. 

I have recently had plenty of time to reflect on development and world health issues as I have been spending many hours in close quarters to my fellow citizens on trains between Manchester and Plymouth. 

As some of you will know I am a professional actor as well as being CEO of the charity and I like to keep my creative muscles in trim when time allows. 

I have recently been playing a village bobby in a... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. is this how Superman feels? ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-78</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-78</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2009 12:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Well guys I have put my money where my mouth is ..

Or, in fact, my old ink cartridges to be precise.

I registered with EachOne Counts ... my bags came in a few days .. 
I popped my old Canon cartridges (seven in total) into the bags this morning .. another quick jaunt to the EachOne Counts website to register the bag code (to be sure my beloved charity gets the cash) and bingo in to the Royal Mail they went and off they whizz as I type to a greater life!

When you consider ... that was a... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Recycle Ink Cartridges for Cash and Win a Bike! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-75</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-75</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ RECYCLE  INKJET CARTRIDGES & MOBILE PHONES!

No, we are not kidding - you can help the environment AND raise money for us at the same time!

Act4Africa have teamed up with the Each One Counts scheme to help you recycle used inkjet cartridges and mobile phones AND raise money for us!

Millions of inkjet cartridges and mobile phones are thrown away every year in the U.K. but they could be raising valuable cash.  

To order some freepost recycling bags please click here to... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Looking to crack 75 minutes. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-77</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-77</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 26 Apr 2009 21:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Well it's all going pretty well.

I'm there on schedule with the plan and if I can do 60 minutes this week I'll feel very pleased with myself!! (.. managed 55 mins and it felt like hard work! So hoping to do better next week)

I've left the dog behind now ... she's much too old and lazy to keep up with me now. 
Sniffing out fox trails much more her thing.

No injuries so far amazed that the knees are holding up!! One thought though: How did people train before MP3 and iPods? Having the right... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Hills, this is for you .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-81</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-81</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Kathy searches for those silver linings ..

This is being written somewhat retrospectively! 

I had such a bad time during cycle 6 that I have to admit I struggled to find any silver linings. 

For reasons unknown I just seem to re-act badly to the drugs and spent most of the 3 weeks feeling very unwell - and definitely sorry for myself! I was going to give the blog a miss but had a message on the answer machine from a very dear friend asking where the blog was - so Hills, this is for you.

I... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Money for Nothing?! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-76</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-76</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 22:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A girl I know is saving money to buy her first car.

This is something that is taking her rather a long time and, impressed by her persistence and determination, her father has offered to give her one pound for every pound that she puts towards her car. Needless to say, she is over the moon and is working harder than ever. I expect she will be 'swinging by' in her new car to show it off any moment now. 
What a wonderful father and how we all wish that someone might do this for us.

The... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ I will be doubly blessed .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-74</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-74</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2009 11:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Kathy prepares for her 6th treatment session ...

Just returned from yet another birthday celebration! 

This time at my school. I did say it was going to be a year of celebrations. It was so nice to see everyone again and after a delicious lunch I was presented with an amazing present. Vouchers for a luxurious Spa near Conway. We will probably combine the trip with a weekend away and lots of relaxing and pampering will be just what I need after the rigors of chemotherapy. I am beginning to... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Can't believe I'm saying that .. ! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-73</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-73</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Jan Spooner updates us on her preparation for the big day .. 

Well I'm enjoying all the training hugely!!

Can't believe I'm saying that, especially being a new GranJan (that's Grandma speak in our house).
I'm out-running the dog and having conversations that go along the lines of : 
 "4.5 miles in 55 minutes well that's  around a 12 minute mile and there's still almost 2 months to go until race day!"

Ran (or rather steady jogged) the furthest in my life ever on Saturday when I did 4½ miles... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Landed in Africa! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-72</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-72</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Friends!

We have arrived. 

All the concerns about losing baggage or complex journeys came to nought. It all went fab - thank you so much for the prayers. I must email slightly speedily as we are being waited for by 'Grey'. Grey is a man! His name is actually Gertrude so over email we had assumed that he was a woman, meeting him at the airport gave us a little bit of a suprise! He works for Evangelical Alliance (EAM) who have really taken us under their wing. They found us a place to stay... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. all was not lost ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-71</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-71</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Kathy's story continues with new challenges ..

The end of another cycle draws near and as I thank God for many good days I also approach the next stage of treatment with apprehension. Tomorrow I embark on the second half of my chemotherapy treatment which involves a switch of drugs whose side effects I have yet to experience. This has caused me some anxiety as though the side effects of the first cocktail of drugs were unpleasant at least I knew what to expect. Hopefully next time I write it... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Letter to Our Friends & Supporters ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=14#article-61</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=14#article-61</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Martin (CEO) writes a heart-felt letter to all Act4Africa friends, supporters and Angels ...

Dear Friends,

Firstly good news, we have had an amazingly positive response to our Christmas appeal to increase the number of regular donations through standing orders. We now have another 28 regular supporters which means we are able to plan more effectively for the future. Our target was 100 so we still have a way to go yet if you know someone who might be willing to provide us with regular... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ What a wonderfully romantic day .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-64</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-64</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2009 23:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The close of another eventful, satisfying "good week" which marks the end of the third 3 week cycle of treatment.

Maybe I should start at the beginning.

The first landmark in this cycle  was the celebration - or not - of my 60th birthday.

As it fell only 5 days into my treatment it was less of a celebration but rather more of a sleep in. 
I spent most of the day dozing interspersed with wonderful moments opening the presents that kind folk left on my doorstep. I felt a little like those... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ ... watch this space, you'll be amazed ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-63</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-63</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ "Our journey out to Africa has not been one we have always understood"

Well, February is rapidly becoming March and the first brave flowers are popping up, eager  to welcome Spring with it's slightly warmer weather.  Brill.  

I'll tell you where you wanna go for really warm weather: Malawi.  Soon and very soon we will have our flights booked.  Soon and very soon we will be stuffing as much as is humanly possible into a few suitcases and putting our little lives on transfer to another... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Hannah in Uganda (part 2) ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=12#article-62</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=12#article-62</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2009 11:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Hannah Lane continues the recollection of her Summer trip with Act4Africa ...   

[story continued]

In the evening, after setting up our sleeping accommodation before dark, (moving benches,  attaching mosquito nets to walls, and arranging mattresses) several of us walked down to  Lake Edward. 

Before we had gone far we had several of the children clutching our hands again, and on our  way back we had to persuade them to stay in the village centre. It was quite a walk to the  church that we... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ ... harder from here .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-60</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-60</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ End of Week3

Still keeping to the plan. 
My dog is certainly getting to know the playing field really well, she doesn't keep up with me mind you!!! More interested in sniffing all sorts of unsavoury things!!!
Yesterday did full 20 minutes on road and grass and today its 10 minutes in first "back to back" session.
It's all going really well! 
But it's going to get harder from here on in I'm sure. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. so far so good ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-59</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-59</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 15 Feb 2009 22:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ End of Week 2

Have kept up with the plan so far!
5 mins jog is around 4 tracks on the MP3 player. Couldn't do it without the music! 
Not sure how today will go, not a lot of sleep last night! 
Beginning to recruit training partners ready for end of Week 3, when time jogged begins to build. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Another milestone for Act4Africa .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-69</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-69</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 15 Feb 2009 15:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ CEO reveals new NGO status in Tanzania

We have recently achieved another milestone and been awarded registration as an NGO (Non Government Organisation) in Tanzania.

This is equivalent of charity status in Tanzania and opens up the door for us to apply to access local funding streams. 

Christopher Aniwia our Tanzanian Chair proudly holds up the registration certificate.

I was also delighted to attend the inaugural board meeting of Act4africa Tanzania while I was visiting. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ One of my great thrills .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-68</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-68</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 14 Feb 2009 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ One of my great thrills is accompanying our local Act4africa teams as they visit schools to deliver our HIV & AIDS prevention education.

These children were delighted by the music and drama and listened with eagerness to learn how to stay safe from this deadly virus.

It was very hot for us Brits with temperatures in the mid 30s but as the dancing reached a crescendo no one seemed to mind. 

Later we broke up into small groups to do a workshop and answer questions. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Funding isn't getting through .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-67</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-67</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ "At the grassroots people want to be tested but the funds are not trickling down"

The fishing villages on the shores of Lake Victoria in Uganda are delightful to look at but the local men are among some of the most high risk groups for HIV & AIDS as they live an  itinerant life and are serviced by many willing women from the local community. 

Act4africa has been working in the area since last September. 

I was able to accompany our Jinja team to deliver a mobile VCT clinic (Voluntary... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. a privilege to shake his hand ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-70</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-70</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Former prisoner speaks about Act4AFrica ... 

Out of the blue a chap turned up who had just been released from prison. He recognised Peter our team leader from Kasese, Uganda. 

Act4africa had been to his prison the previous year far away in the west of Uganda. 

During the workshops he had learned how to protect himself from HIV and also decided to 'go straight' after listening to peter explain about behaviour change and having goals in life. 

What a great testimony to our work and what a... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Dar es Salaam, Tanzania ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-65</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-65</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Martin arrives in Dar es Salaam

I was delighted to be accompanied on this trip by Andy Rochford. 

Andy brings a wealth  of experience of the business world and was able to help the team in Dar es Salaam review  how they could deliver their work even more efficiently. 

Once Andy had overcome the shock of  35 degree temperatures and 80% humidity he was able to enjoy sharing some of his accumulated  wisdom with team leaders Jordan & Frank and the rest of the Dar es Salaam team. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Most Enjoyable .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-58</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=3&amp;storyline_id=13#article-58</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2009 21:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Jan Spooner, former Office Manager for Act4Africa (UK), pulls on her trainers and begins her training for the BUPA Manchester 10K in May. We follow her 'blisters and all' journey ..

DAY 1
Well that's it . Entrance  fee paid and Day 1 training undertaken. 
10 minutes gentle jog around the football field on Harboro Road.
Most enjoyable, sun shining perfect winter day! 
That was easy ! 2 days off now, so that's it  until Saturday!!   
1 day down  83 to go. ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. I know we will succeed ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-53</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-53</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 13:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Kathy continues her journey ...

Just returned from spending a weekend with old and dear friends in the Wye Valley, which also included a night in an amazing hotel in Cardiff. Yes, I have certainly become an international traveller again!

Over the past 2 months of suffering from "a serious illness" I have had more contact with old friends from the past than I ever dreamed possible. And yes, we are all old in age now as well as old in the number of years we have known each other, but I guess... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Hope is not as frail as it seems ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-52</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=10#article-52</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Martin shares a word of hope and optimism for the future of Act4Africa ..

Alexan who works in our office came across this quote recently and I was struck by how true those words are, both for our work in Africa and from my experience in the UK;

"This isn't only a medical issue but also one of social tolerance. It'll take longer to develop a cure for the stigma then it will for the virus."
Lin Shuguan China Daily Jan 09

I personally know people who are HIV positive here in the UK who cannot... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Act4Africa partners with JCRC, Uganda ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-56</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-56</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 10:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Act4africa is delighted to announce that it has partnered with specialist HIV & AIDS medical  centre, JCRC in Jinja Uganda.

Act4Africa can now offer Medical Students specialist elective placements in the field of HIV & AIDS for several weeks or several months. 

The Joint Clinical Research Center (JCRC) was founded in 1991 to serve as a national AIDS research center, and was born as a collaboration between Makerere University's School of Medicine and Uganda's Ministries of Health and... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Every Cloud has a Silver Lining .. ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-50</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=11#article-50</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Kathy shares with us her very personal story since her unexpected illness in late 2008 ..

Wow, who would ever have thought I would have the time to chat about my day?!!  

Since being diagnosed with breast cancer last November I have begun to realise the meaning of "every cloud has a silver lining" or should I say I am living in the knowledge that out of every disaster God will bring many positives.

One of the benefits for me is that I have suddenly become "time rich" I even allowed someone... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Destination Malawi  ... "the race is on!" ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-51</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=9#article-51</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 12:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Limbo land is an odd place to be and not entirely comfortable ... 

David and I find ourselves cuddling up to radiators as we wait out the British winter, instead of basking under the beauty of an African sun. 

We were due to leave on January 14th, to Malawi to pioneer the TOT programme into that country. We were dead excited, we'd read the books, got the training, bought the mosquito nets and were teetering on the edge of departure, when the majority of our funding suddenly ground to a halt... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ We can’t quite believe we’re back! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-49</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-49</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 20 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Neal and Sarah have just returned to the UK after a life-enhancing twelve month trip with Act4Africa ..

We can't quite believe we're back! Where did this year go?! 

It was hard saying goodbye to all our friends in Dar, it's been a great time working with people there and developing Act4Africa's work.

The ToT project is now fully set up. 180 people have been trained at level 1 in the partnership with the Lutheran church and we have trained two of the schools' team who are now dedicated ToT... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Hannah in Uganda (part 1) ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=12#article-55</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=12#article-55</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ This summer was my third Act4Africa expedition, but my first to Uganda.

It was also my first as an assistant leader, which was a privilege challenge  and good preparation for the responsibility that I was shortly to have as a newly qualified nurse.
 
A new addition to this year's summer team schedule was a visit to two villages, where we planned to stay overnight in local accommodation and run HIV workshops, while the local team would do Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) in the... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The Hardest Working Woman in Comedy! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-47</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-47</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ World AIDS Day 2008 ...

It's 5.00p.m. and, true to her word, Jo Brand has just walked through the door of The Comedy Store in plenty of time for the press interviews that are scheduled for 5.30p.m. I shake the hand of the slight man who walks in with her and thank him, thinking him to be her driver to which Jo laughs. She explains that she's travelled up under her own steam. The bloke she's walked in with is an errant fan who'd been waiting by the door for hours to see if she'd have her... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Pyjama Party Madness in Minehead! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-46</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-46</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The Act4Africa Ambassadors in Minehead have topped £1,000 with their Pyjama Party and Lunch-a-Month Madness!

Well we've had a fantastic month of Act4Africa events here in Minehead, but it has to be said, some of us are starting to fret about our expanding waistlines (and it's not even Christmas yet!). With the film premiere a few weeks ago (a great excuse to accompany it with a cream tea – well this is Somerset after all), followed by last weeks Pyjama Party Madness (more scones and... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ .. but at least we are on a Road! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=5#article-15</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=5#article-15</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2008 16:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I know that it's common to think that everyone else has it easy, but the last few weeks (even months) at Act4Africa have been less than relaxing.

At least in one area we can look forward to breathing a sigh of relief as the website has finally hit the ether with grateful thanks to tonnes of hard work by Rob Davies and the team at Luxson, Manchester. 
Guys, you really have made us proud.

Mind you, isn't this when the REAL work begins? Not that telling the world about the amazing stories that... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The latest from Neal & Sarah ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-36</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-36</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 20 Oct 2008 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Neal and Sarah have updated their blog - find out all about their eventful trip to Burundi and the work they've been doing since they go back by clicking here

Before you do, here's a tasty taster!

We're back in Dar! Last time we wrote we were just off on a trip to Burundi. We had an amazing time, a 3 day road trip each way, a day off/ organising when we arrived and a 3 day conference whilst we were there – bit of a whirlwind!

The road trip was amazing, some beautiful countryside,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Further developments in setting up Medical Electives ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-26</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-26</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ We have also been able to make the Medical Electives programme in Uganda a two-centre elective by combining time in Jinja in the research centre with a more rural bush hospital experience in the more untamed western part of Uganda in Kasese. 

Kasese lies near the shores of Lake Albert and adjoins the beautiful Queen Elizabeth National Park and gorilla treks are only a couple of hours drive south of here. It really is beautiful in this part of the woods. Time spent here will provide more of a... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ A beauty pageant at Taurus ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-27</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-27</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Sep 2008 13:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Much fun was had at Taurus during a recent beauty pageant to find "who is the fairest of them all" at the central Manchester bar. Staff held the beauty contest in support of Act4Africa's 1 Million Lives+ campaign, raising enough funds to put over 200 young Africans through the charity's HIV and AIDS Prevention education programmes. With hot competition from Taurus's staff and customers, the crown was eventually won by general manager Nosheel (who assured Act4Africa that is was a fair... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Sarah's story ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-43</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-43</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Back at the office in Jinja it was fantastic to meet Absolom, Samuel and Eda, all living with HIV and working with our core team to deliver our Stigma Reduction Programmes. I also met Sarah whose story I will never forget. It is only through her steadfast faith in God and the support of our Jinja team that she has survived these past few years. Four years ago her husband fell sick and refused to seek help. Weeks before he died he was finally persuaded to take a HIV test. He was found to be... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Boiled Eggs, Corn and an Afternoon with Christine ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-42</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-42</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I have shared some of Patrick, our team manager's, trials with you before. Most of you will know that he was orphaned to AIDS by the time he was 14 and that he recently lost his sister Annette to HIV. 

It was a huge honour to be invited to meet his Grandma Christine, Grandfather Elisa, younger brother Timo and many of his relatives last week. Most of them speak Lugandan but we had no problem communicating. Facial expressions and a hug have the ability to replace a thousand words. Ian, Steve... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Medical Electives set-up for Uganda! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-25</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-25</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I've just returned from a 14 day very fast paced tour to visit our 3 brilliant local Act4Africa teams in Uganda and Tanzania. As well as delivering VCT - Voluntary Counselling and Testing - to over 200 people in a remote hill village in Kasese, Uganda, visiting our Train the Trainers programme run by Neal and Sarah in Dar es Salaam, and taking a lead in our first Tanzanian "The theology of HIV/AIDS" conference, which had been such a hit in Uganda last year, I was able to make progress on the... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The Greatest Gift of All... Hope ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-41</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-41</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I cannot begin to share with you the joy of working with our local team each day, praying together each morning before heading out to offer the sick and the healthy the greatest gift of all.... Hope. Collectively, Patrick, Martha, Moses, Mariam, Daisy, Harriet, Mathew and Esther have lost 32 relatives to AIDS, 2 have been orphaned by the disease and one, Moses, has lost his dad with his mother currently very sick with HIV. Their average age is 28. Surrounded by so much pain and disease, it... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Three years on - what a difference! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-40</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-40</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 31 Aug 2008 14:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Well where do I start? I have just returned from an incredible week with our Jinja team in Uganda. I travelled out to Africa with Steve and Ian from The Message Trust. Our intention? To try and capture on film the essence of our work; to be able to share the true impact of the AIDS crisis and our response to it with potential supporters in the West.  It is three years since my last trip to Jinja and Kasese and so much has changed. I confess to feeling like a proud parent as we interviewed and... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ July update ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-38</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-38</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ So, it's still hectic! Sorry we've not updated again for a while. The training is going well and we are now on course 7 of 9, 2 more weeks and level 1 is complete! This week has been really good, an excellent group of participants, which has made it really fun (not that it isn't usually!).

Life in Dar continues to be a mixture of highs and lows, successes and frustrations, times of peace and times of stress.  We are building good friendships, yet missing our friends back at home, enjoying... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Visitors & travel ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-37</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-37</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ So, level 1 is now complete! This month we've had a break from ToT as there have been many other things happening. A4A hosted a conference ‘Hope, Health & Spiritual Renewal, the Theology of HIV & AIDS', which kept us busy with the organising. It was a successful conference, and it was great to hear the feedback of thoughts about ‘what the church can do' in the final session. If they go ahead with their thoughts and ideas to make changes which will help tackle gender and stigma issues, we... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ BRAINBOXES charity quiz raises £350 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-28</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-28</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 08:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ BRAINBOXES have helped to raise £350 to help former town councillor and Minehead Mayor Meigan Lyons fund a charity trip to Africa. As part of a bid to raise £2,225 to cover the costs of a long-term expedition delivering HIV/AIDS Prevention workshops and training across southern and eastern Africa with charity Act4Africa, Meigan organised a fundraising charity quiz at the Minehead and District Social Club.

Meigan said: "I'm thrilled to say that the quiz evening raised £350 - wonderful... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Manto 'Raises the Bar' for Food4Thought ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-29</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-29</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 13:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ We're thrilled to hear of the fun and success that Manchester bars have had in raising money for the recently launched Food4Thought campaign. The campaign went live in April with local restaurants Churchill's, Manto, Taurus and View offering to ask every customer to donate a £1 to Act4Africa to fund the charity's AIDS Education Programmes and Voluntary Counselling and Testing Clinics in Africa.

The bars collectively raised over £700 during the month of April with top fundraisers Manto,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Filming the Impact - 4 short videos coming soon! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-30</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=7#article-30</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ This is brilliant! Top comedian, Tim Vine, star of BBC's 'Not Going Out', has signed up to front and do the voice over for 4 short films that we will making in Africa to document our work to combat the AIDS crisis.

The films will be produced by the highly acclaimed Message Media team and will be used to share the positive impact of the work that Act4Africa has had on reducing the threat of HIV and other life limiting illnesses in Africa. The films are going to be used to highlight awareness... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Yet another spare tyre - latest from Neal & Sarah ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-39</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-39</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Neal & Sarah's blog is updated with their latest news. Training has started and they've completed their first 3 courses - they can't quite believe how much has happened... You can read all about it here!

They go on to write: The first week was in a rural district called Maneromango. We were assured it would take 1½ hours to get there, and, no, no, we didn't need to go on Sunday, Monday morning was fine. We allowed 2½ hours to get there, and 5 hours later we arrived! The roads were terrible,... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Medical Electives? Now there's an idea... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-24</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=4&amp;storyline_id=6#article-24</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 01 Jun 2008 12:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Having taken several young trainee medics on our regular expeditions, I realised that there was a really terrific synergy with some of our existing partner organisations to be able to offer tailored medical electives for those with a particular interest in HIV & AIDS.

After all, many African countries now have more doctors and nurses working in richer countries abroad than they have at home, according to research - see this article on the BBC website. Kenya has over half of its doctors... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Four Month Uganda Trip Fights Spread of HIV ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=12#article-14</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=12#article-14</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 May 2008 09:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ SWANSEA student Hannah Lane is no stranger to a challenge.

The 30-year-old is gearing up to head out to Africa and educate youngsters about the threat of HIV and Aids.

It will be the fourth time the third-year mental health nursing student has visited thecontinent to help stem the epidemic.
She will be heading up an HIV prevention team, with the charity Act4Africa, when she makes the trip out to Kasese in western Uganda this August (2008).

The school of health science student, from... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Wirral students head to Africa! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=2&amp;sub_section_id=5#article-11</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=2&amp;sub_section_id=5#article-11</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 18 May 2008 14:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The Messenger reports on two of our expedition go-ers this summer - Jenny and Katherine - read all about it!

TWO Wirral students have an extraordinary trip to Africa planned for the summer.

Jennifer Davies from Birkenhead Sixth Form College and Katherine Holian from Neston High School will join eight other young people for a three-week mission in Africa on July 29.

Charity group Act 4 Africa selected Jenny and Katherine for the journey of a lifetime.

They and members of their church, St... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Food4Thought Campaign launched! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-31</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-31</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Apr 2008 19:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ We've launched our latest Fundraising Campaign! It's already had a fabulous reaction - here's the press release for more info:

"Manchester bars and restaurants (Churchills, Manto, View and Taurus) have joined forces with local charity Act4Africa to fight AIDS in Africa. The bars are working together on a ‘Food4Thought' campaign and will be inviting customers to make a £1 donation every time they eat with them in support of Act4Africa's drive to ensure 1 million young Africans go through an... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Overland Adventure with Neal & Sarah ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-33</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-33</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 Mar 2008 13:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Another week passes  and we're now ¾ of the way through our trip, unbelievable! This week we have moved out of the capital, Lilongwe, and are more remote again to a place called Ekwendeni in the north. We're staying in a hostel in the mission base, which covers a huge area and includes schools, a hospital, and churches  amongst other things. 

It's been a good week, we've worked with the Girl's Brigade, an all girl's secondary school, another secondary, and a primary with a unit for children... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ The Overland Team meet some Lions... ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=8#article-34</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=8#article-34</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 30 Jan 2008 13:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Hello Everyone, all of us here (well, a representation!) 

Well, we'll pick up where Martin left off. After Martins departure, we had an afternoon at the local community centre. This was slightly frustrating, in that some of the people seemed resistant to our teaching. However, after discussing the days events, we discovered that many people had appreciated our efforts and actually taken a lot from it. So, yeah, pretty good in the end! That night we dressed up - grease/fame/80s/anything we... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Overland Team in Zimbabwe ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=8#article-35</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=8#article-35</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jan 2008 13:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Without a doubt my 2 amazing weeks with our 2008 Overland team in Zimbabwe has only reinforced my deep sorrow at how such a beautiful country with such wonderfully talented and dignified people is suffering so starkly.

We completed the HIV training over the course of a week in Harare staying in relative comfort in a walled and gardened hostel but we too suffered from the usual power cuts and even more difficult water cuts. (In a hot climate there is nothing more drastic than having no... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ What were you wearing on World AIDS Day? ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-32</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-32</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 03 Dec 2007 13:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ What an amazing weekend we've had at Act4Africa- there have been so many events staged in support of our work to fight HIV and AIDS through Prevention Education Programmes that Jo and I didn't even have time to get dressed each day!" Just as well it was the weekend of Act4Africa 'Biggest Pyjama Party in the World... . Ever' then!

We started out the week with World AIDS Day Assemblies and Pyjama Parties at a whole array of schools in the and finished the week at The "Pyjamas at Dawn... Late... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Neal & Sarah prepare for Africa 08 ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-7</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=3#article-7</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 08 Nov 2007 13:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ An exciting (and daunting) 2008 lies ahead for Neal and Sarah Stanton who, as part of Act4Africa, are heading out to Dar es Salaam to train trainers from the various regions of Tanzania in HIV and AIDS prevention eduction though Drama and Sport! They will be spending the first three months leading a small team from the UK delivering programmes in Zimbabwe, Malawi and Tanzania, and then they will be based in Dar es Salaam. Currently there is no national programme to deliver a consistent... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Debenhams signs up for Pyjama Party romp! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-5</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-5</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 31 Oct 2007 13:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Debenhams Desire store in Altrincham has joined businesses, schools and colleges in Trafford in signing up for "The Biggest Pyjama Party in the World....Ever" to help fight AIDS in Africa. The store is supporting Act4Africa and will be raising funds to help the charity combat AIDS in Africa through the delivery of AIDS prevention education programmes.

Debenhams will be holding an In-Store Pyjama Party Pamper Evening between 6.00p.m. and 9.00p.m. on Wednesday 7th November and will be inviting... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Shh... DJ does breakfast show in pyjamas ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-10</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-10</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 30 Oct 2007 14:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ WIRE FM breakfast DJ Pete Pinnington will be delivering his show in his pyjamas on Sunday to help fight Aids in Africa.

In an effort to raise funds for health education charity Act4Africa, Pete will be joined by organisers of the charity to raise awareness of The Biggest Pyjama Party in the WorldEver!' that is being held on Friday, November 30.

Comedians Jo Brand and Rich Hall will be among those wearing their night clothes for the day and they are urging people to head to work, school, or... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Even Jo Brand's getting into her pyjamas! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-6</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=2#article-6</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 29 Oct 2007 13:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ South Trafford College students, along with other schools and small businesses like ‘Air Hair' in Altrincham are supporting our flagship fundraising event with Pyjama Parties, Pyjama Pub Crawls and even Pyjama Coffee Mornings through-out November in the run up to World AIDS Day (1st December). 

We're hoping that thousands of people will go to work, college and university in their Pyjamas, purchase an AIDS ribbon and raise funds for Act4Africa's comprehensive education programmes. TV... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ "No Laughing Matter" 3 peaks challenge report! ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-9</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-9</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jul 2007 14:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In 2007 a disperate band of comedians took us up on the challenge to climb three of the toughest peaks in the British Isles, to save lives in the continent of Africa. What happened has gone down in comedic-fundraising history ...

What can I say apart from we are so proud of you all. You were incredible this weekend.....Nothing could stop all bar 2 of you from completing the challenge, and even those who, due to injury, could not complete the climb achieved more than they'll ever know.... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Bristol joins in with Comedy Night ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-8</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-8</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 10 Jun 2007 14:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ It was previewed as "The Comedy Night of the Week" in The Guardian Gig Guide and with good reason.  Craig Campbell pulled together the line up to beat all line ups for a fantastic night of fun and frolics at Jesters Comedy Club in Bristol this week. The gig was the first "No Laughing Matter" event in aid of Aids education charity Act4Africa to be staged in Bristol.

Craig performed (in every sense of the word!) alongside fellow comedian and "3 Peaker" Rex Boyd and top acts Sean Meo, Jon... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Spikey signs up for 'No Laughing Matter' ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-3</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-3</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2007 13:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Yes, the rumours are true! Bafta Award Winner Dave Spikey (co-writer and star of Pheonix Nights and panellist on Channel 4's Award winning 8 out of 10 Cats Comedy Game Show) will be headlining our 1st, "No Laughing Matter" comedy gig at The Comedy Store in Manchester on Monday 23rd April 2007!

Dave is the latest comedian to sign up in support of Act4Africa's 1 Million Lives plus campaign to ensure that over a million Africans go through the charity's HIV and AIDS Prevention Education... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Comedy store signs up to combat AIDS ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-2</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-2</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Manchester's favourite comedy venue, The Comedy Store, has become the latest company to join forces with Manchester based charity Act4Africa in the fight against AIDS. The Comedy Store has agreed to stage a series of "No Laughing Matter" comedy nights, to raise funds for Act4Africa as part of the charity's "1 Million Lives Plus" campaign to combat AIDS in Africa.

Act4Africa has pledged to deliver HIV and AIDS Prevention Education Programmes to over a million Africans by World AIDS Day... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Messenger Reports on "No Laughing Matter" ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-4</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-4</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 31 Jan 2007 13:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Messenger Newspapers have reported on our "No Laughing Matter" 3-peaks challenge:

A WOMAN from Kingsmead is organising a challenge with a comedy twist in aid of a campaign that is no laughing matter. Lesley-Ann Newman, of Monarch Drive, has inspired a team of comedians to get fit and tackle the three peaks challenge for her charity Act4Africa. Now she is hoping more people will come forward and take part in the expedition up the highest mountains in the UK to raise money for AIDS education... ]]></description>
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<title><![CDATA[ Comedians commit to combat AIDS ]]></title>
<link>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-1</link>
<guid>http://www.act4africa.org/stories.aspx?section_id=1&amp;storyline_id=1#article-1</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Dec 2006 12:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A team of the UK's best loved comedians have signed up today (1st December) on World AIDS day to raise funds to combat HIV and AIDS in Africa. Top comedians including Eddie Award winner Phil Nichol, Martin Bigpig, Craig Campbell, Dave Fulton, Rex Boyd, Steve Harris, John Bishop, Dave Turquoise, Rob Hallam and Vince Atta have committed to compete a 3 Peaks- "No Laughing Matter" Challenge on behalf of Act4Africa, a UK based charity which delivers AIDS Prevention and Behavioural Change... ]]></description>
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