Replace the word Africa with the word Europe and in an instant an international crisis is born covered by in-depth stories on the front pages of every major newspaper in the world following every detail and nuance of the situation…..every day!

DO YOU DOUBT IT?

Africa is imploding….Zimbabwe, Congo, Sudan (Darfur) and Rwanda…places where genocide is not just a word but a way of life.

NOTE: On an episode of The West Wing, the President asked an aide, “why is an American life worth more than a Sudanese life.” The aide responded, “I don’t know, sir….but it is.”

If that answer is acceptable to you then the following information probably will not move you in any way. In fact, stop now and grab yourself a cold drink. If it is UNACCEPTABLE to you then read on…..

Johannesburg-based political activist Kumi Naidoo has embarked on a 21-day hunger-strike to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe.

Naidoo’s Save Zimbabwe Now campaign was inspired by a visit to the country last year.

Naidoo, the secretary-general of Civicus — a non-governmental organisation for human rights — was touched by the plight of Zimbabweans while shooting a short film, Time 2 Act, which can be viewed on YouTube.

“We spoke to a little boy who eloquently told us that he had only water for 11 days and that he was not sure if he was going to eat that Christmas,” he said.

Naidoo said that it was extremely hard not to be moved by the boy’s statement.

Naidoo commenced his hunger strike on Wednesday and will refrain from eating anything until February 11. He will only drink water during this time.

“The doctors say the second to the fourth days are hardest, but inspiration comes from freedom fighter Lenny Naidu, who taught me that it is more important to give the rest of my life for the struggle, and not die for it.”

Naidoo began his hunger strike at the launch at the Central Methodist Church in central Johannesburg this week, where he will be based for most of the hunger strike.

Naidoo said he would attempt to function normally for as long as his energy allowed.

Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, who is also part of the campaign, will fast for one day of the week.

“The aim of this hunger strike is to mobilise 100000 South Africans to join this ‘relay-fast’ so that we have at least one person fasting everyday,” said Naidoo.

Some of the goals of the campaign include: