Extra practice news story 9: investigative

Companionship of Generous American Descends on Africa

Posted: 4:45 p.m. MST, March 28, 2007

Logan, Utah – A partnership between Bill and Melinda Gates and fellow philanthropist Ted Turner has been hinted of in relation to a soon to be announced major world endeavor to aid Africa. While on an assignment last Wednesday I witnessed the three billionaires getting of a private jet together in a remote corner of Africa forgotten by most of the world. No former collaboration between the three has ever been mentioned by either party but it is not thought unwelcome by the local community.

It was discovered that the purpose of this most recent trip was to discuss with local leaders how their people could best be helped. Local African mayor Malik Ok said that when he met with the group they discussed opportunities that exist between the goals of the humanitarians and his people. With the history of the Gates charity work as credentials enough for anyone, Ok agreed that his people could benefit from the proposed educational programs by referring to a comment made by Mr. Gates, “my people don’t need fish, they need to learn how to fish.” The mayor is also not against helping in the effort himself, he said, “ we can contribute and we want to.” The hopes off those involved focus on the raising of living standard around the continent.

Mr. Gates reiterated his two main goals for not only this project, but also his many other efforts around the world, “to educate underprivileged people and to eradicate diseases.” With a project of this magnitude, he admits they will greatly need the resources of both Ted Turner and the World Health Organization. Dr. Margaret Chan of the WHO summarized their efforts by showing gratitude for philanthropists worldwide, “I think the generosity of philanthropist in the world …like Bill and Melinda Gates is facilitating the philosophy we have and their generosity and goals really makes my organization effective and worth while.”
Bill Gate’s plan to “get children at a young age educated and raise the quality of life” is an attainable plan. Studies have shown that the younger children are educated, the more likely they are to hold good jobs and be able to sustain themselves. The world is waiting and watching to see if this initiative turns out to be as greatly profitable as the donators are claiming. No doubt that Africa can use all of the help it can get to become a better contributor to the world society and eventually become a formidable power in our global economy.