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"In every community, in every nation, people are doing little
and big things to help make a better world. Think of what has been
accomplished to date: space exploration; satellite communications;
heart transplants. Today, we have managed to do what previous generations
never dreamed of. But, you see, today, around the world, 820 million
people still don't have enough to eat. And it doesn't have to be
this way."
Singer Miriam Makeba, the legendary Mama Africa, appointed an FAO
Ambassador in 1999, has a longstanding commitment to humanitarian
issues. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, her fearless campaigning
against inequality and injustice has added to the worldwide fame
she had already won for her vocal talents. Ms Makeba has travelled
throughout Africa to give voice to millions of suffering people.
Drawing on her own funds, she set up a foundation in Johannesburg
to care for needy young South African women.
Ms Makeba dedicated a song, Masakahane,
to FAO and has participated in various events and concerts organized
by FAO, such as the Jamaica and Spain TeleFood concerts in 1999.
In April 2001, Ms. Makeba visited FAO post-emergency projects in
Mozambique, increasing the visibility and impact of FAO’s activities
in Africa. Click to
view video from the visit.
Ms Makeba has also been a strong FAO advocate during interviews
with CNN and BBC.
In 2001 and 2002, an FAO public service announcement featuring Miriam
Makeba was published on major international magazines and newspapers
such as Time Magazine and Newsweek.
More about Miriam Makeba
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