August 23, 2000

OHIO LEGISLATIVE BLACK CAUCUS ON THE ROAD AGAIN

Patricia A. Kennard

Johannesburg, South Africa

The second leg of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus mission carried the 19 members of the delegation to Johannesburg, South Africa Wednesday. Creating jobs for the masses is still its focus, but also striking partnerships with businesses here and abroad.

During its three day stay in Johannesburg, sessions are being held with Roger Erwin, Minister Counselor of Foreign Commercial Services and Lu Ann Grant, Vice Consulate General of US Business in South Africa.

The OLBC has been invited to attend a meeting with Nombuyiselo Joyce Ngele, Metro Mayor of the Greater Pretoria Council, prior to a meeting with the Ambassador to the United States, Delano Lewis.

Before departing for Johannesburg, the OLBC toured Robben Island, which is now a museum. Robben Island was the home of former ANC President, Nelson Mandela for 16 of his 27 years of prison confinement. The tour was guided by revered Ahmed Kathrada, one of the men sentenced to life in prison, along with Mandela in the infamous Revonia Trial of 1964.