QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: INDEX

Welcome! Below you will find an archive of INTERACTIVE questions and answers (from February 8 to March 1, 1998).

Note from the webmaster: Audio answers from the film team were received daily by satellite phone and uploaded to this site in RealAudio format (only) so please... install RealAudio to get the most from this site. (Click here to get a RealPlayer for free.)

P.S: If you have any suggestions for links, ideas for additions, questions or technical problems with this site please email me at albooth@interlog.com.

Questions and answers are in no particular order (except the order they were asked) so... to find them just SCROLL DOWN THE PAGE!

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 2 to 8

Below you'll find the first batch of answers to your questions (edited according to certain rules). Note: most of these first questions were general in nature and seemed to require answers from people directly connected with development issues so... most were answered by the USC film liaison. As you come back to this site over the coming weeks and read reports from the field I'm sure you'll have more specific questions related to what the film team discovers.

Can we e-mail certain people in Mali?

(from the webmaster) To answer this in a general way: There is an internet service provider in the capital city of Bamako and there are now phones in much of the country so... one can send email to anyone in Mali who has an email address. However... in the rural areas the majority of people don't have phones so... no possibility of email.

What kind of folks make up the "team" that is going to Mali?

(from the webmaster) Click here for a list of team members.

Will a VHS recording will be made available as well (of River of Sand)?

(from Kensington Communications) Yes. Kensington Communications will be selling a tape. Please email us at kenscom@interlog.com for ordering information.

Isn't the encroaching Sahara a done deal, i.e. no matter what you do, it's like trying to empty the ocean with a teaspoon?? (I'm assuming that the problem extends across all of Northern Africa...). What's the ground-water situation. Is there enough underground to send in serious drilling equipment & pumps?? (I know that's expensive, but it seems to be more practical in the long run to do this instead of just working with the sand?) This inquiring mind wants to know!!

(from USC film team liaison) This year's drought in Mali was the result of a shortage of rainfall in the northern regions of the country. This is something that is becoming more and more frequent with climatic changes. When we speak of desertification, this is from both a environmental and social point of view. On the social side, it stems from things like overuse of land and unstable land management practices. (A more involved answer will appear on this site soon)

How do the people of Mali feel about traditional missionary work, ie, the atempt to convert people to Christianity? Sort of the 'bibles and vaccines' approach? Do they feel that more harm was done than good?

(from USC Canada film liaison) The primary religion of the people in Mali is Muslim. We can't speak on behalf of the people of Mali as to how they feel about "traditional missionary work". It is our practice at USC Canada not to impose projects or beliefs/cultural differences on the local people where we work. Rather, we respect local traditions and cultural practices. In the same sense, all USC projects and are identified by the local people, with USC providing the required support!

I'm familiar with a reforestation project in Chad that, in a small way, is trying to address the problem of desertification there. Is planting trees/native vegetation something that can work in a long-range plan to keep the desert back in Mali? Is part of the problem the human manipulation of rivers/water sources? (Here in California we have our share of "water wars.")

(from USC film liaison) In semi-aird zones, like Mali, reforestation with native trees in definitely part of a long term strategy. In northern Mali, deforestation has contributed to this current situation. Water/River manipulation is not an issue there. Therre is sufficient underground water due to the Niger River delta. Without the Niger, the situation would be impossible to address. Also a number of water conservation programs are being introduced.

Is the drought strictly an environmental phenomenon, or have polital activities in the country worsened things?

Find a (partial) answer from Bruce by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview on "politics" recorded today (Feb. 9/98).

Are you folks transporting any items of relief to Mali, ie medicines or machinery or whatever....

(from USC film liaison) Not really. (USC is a development orgaization not a relief organization.) But the team brought personal supplies that they will probably leave with people when they go home (antibiotics, bandaids, granola bars, etc.).

What are you doing right now? How are people dealing with their food needs where you are and how does that compare with how they used to before the drought? Are there any communication problems? Do many of the people speak French? (I wonder how many of the people in the former French colonies in Africa actually speak French.)

(from USC film liaison) To help the people in the Douentza region cope with the drought this year USC staff are working with the people to get an early start to the market garden season, in order to provide an alternative harvest. Also, USC Canada has contributed $10,000 (CAN) to USC Mali for the establishment of cereal banks in different communities. This funding is on a loan basis and is being matched by the USC Mali office. These banks will provide local people with access to grains if necessary.

In the Douentza region, communications systems are still not common. The village of Douentza itself has a local radio station which broadcasts daily information. The USC office in Douentza has only recently been equipped with phone and fax lines. Communication prior to that was by radio only.

In the urban centres, there are quite a large number of people who speak french and it is one of the "official" languages of the country, especially for business etc. In the rural communities, french speaking people are more difficult to find. This is all changing as school children now take lessons in french, including the students who attend the USC supported Gono school.

What issue or issues has influenced Bruce Cockburn's involvement in this project?

Find Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

When is this going to be aired and can we see it in America?

(from Kensington Communications) The documentary River of Sand will be aired (in Canada) on Vision TV in the fall of 1998. So far... there are no broadcasters on board outside Canada. But that will change and when it does... you'll find the info on this site.

To Bruce: What are your thoughts about high technology and the internet? This seems like a great use of it to me.

Find Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

I'm a beadworker. Do the people of Mali have a native style of beadwork - could you show some of their work if they do?

(from the webmaster) Am trying to get rights to show pictures from Ornament magazine.

My son, Jason, and I are doing a study project on Mali and your experiences there to present to his 4th grade class. We would like to know what kinds of preparations went into making this trip, both for the documentary, and on a personal level. What did you bring? What were the restrictions on how much you could bring? What type of clothing, equipment, personal supplies? How many people are on the team? What kind of paperwork was required? How long have you been preparing for the trip? How did the project get started? What personal reasons do team members have for joining, especially Bruce.

Find Bruce's answers by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

Here's the rest of the answer from the USC liaison:
In a nutshell, River of Sand has been in the planning stages for well over a year now and in the "discussion" stage for a year prior to that. Kensington Communications, USC and Bruce Cockburn have worked together for close to 20 years on a number of development related issues. The environment, including desertification, is a common interest among the group. A team has been working on logistics since the middle of last summer and an advance scouting trip was made in October in preparation for the filming. From a documentary standpoint, USC's staff in Mali have played a role in obtaining the proper permissions from the Malian government to allow filming to take place. They have also handled some of the on ground logistics also including arranging for accommodation. The Canadian Embassy and USC's Mali office have both provided vehicles and drivers for the duration of the trip. Restrictions on equipment have been limited to basically how much the crew could bring. In this case, they are travelling "light", bringing only necessary equipment (including backup cameras and batteries and tapes etc.). In October, Air France generously lifted their excess baggage charge which helped out a lot. Of course preparations were also extensive from a personal level as well. All members of the team have spent months familiarizing themselves with the culture and "climate" of Mali. They have taken all medical precautions necessary and have taken time out of their own busy schedules to make the trip. Hot and very dry are the conditions presently, so clothing and supplies reflect that....everyone has with them a good hat, lots of sunscreen, mosquito nets etc.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 9

Below you'll find the second batch of answers. Remember to check out our Daily Journal page.

Bruce:Is this trip providing inspiration for a new song or songs?

Find Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

What made you choose this topic?

(from the webmaster) You will find Bruce Cockburn's answer on the Daily Journal Page in RealAudio format.

Here's another answer from a USC film liaison: "Desertification has been one of the main issues being addressed by USC programming for several years now. It affects the lives and livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. Interestingly enough, it is not solely an issue of the south. Many countries around the world are effected, including Canada and the United States. One third of the land in North America is dryland and 74 per cent of that amount, used for agriculture, suffers from some form of land degradation. USC, Kensington Communications and Bruce Cockburn have, over the past few years, produced television announcements addressing this issue, so it seemed appropriate to team up to produce 'River of Sand'."

I'm curious about Bamako. Is it a very poor city? Is the difference between those who have and those who don't very great? What is the Political situation like and does the common man have any influence on the gov't? How is the food?

Find Bruce's answer to parts of this question by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

Is the desertification caused by natural events, or by human abuse? Which guitar did Bruce bring with to Mali? Is it the Manzer? How do you protect the guitar from the elements?

Find Bruce's answer to the guitar part of this question by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today. (Errata from the webmaster: Coincidentally, I designed the site for Manzer Guitars. On it you'll find one of Bruce Cockburn's guitars.)

Here's USC's answer to the first part of the question: " A combination of both really. Although it is technically defined as land degradation in dryland areas, desertification is much more complex. It results when unpredictable climate variations are combined with unsustainable land use practices, like cutting down trees for firewood, overworking the land, overexploiting natural resources etc. It is further complicated by the stresses and strains of densely populated areas. Once fertile land becomes unusable for agriculture or animal grazing."

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 10

Below you'll find the third batch of answers. Remember to check out our Daily Journal page.

Is there any thought that global warming has contributed to the extremity and unusual timing of the drought in Mali?

(from the Canadian International Development Agency) There is speculation that global warming is one of the factors involved with drought, however scientific evidence is divided, both for and against, this notion. There is no doubt however, that El Nino has played a role in the drought in Mali, as it has in other regions of Africa. The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) has developed a committee that is specifically geared to responding to requests to assistance from crisis associated with El Nino. Interestingly enough in the case of Mali, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has reported an average cereal harvest in Mali for 1997 and further findings show that Mali's neighbours including Burkina Faso and Senegal have been harder hit by the drought.

For Bruce: Will you play music with Mali musicians, will you record any of this if so, and will it be in the film or available any other way? Also, what's it like trying to integrate your style ("Western", "folk", etc.) with music of Mali?

Find Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

What are the positive actions being taken by local people to stop and reverse desertification? (My students are in their final year of teacher education. One of their big concerns about bringing global issues into the classroom is the possibility of increasing the despair expressed by some children about the future of the planet. We are interested in building files on positive solutions, especially programs that can involve children in Canadian schools.)

Find an answer from USC film liaison Friederike Knabe by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

Students are curious about the connections between ancient Mali and the current nation state of "Mali."

(Courtesy of Encyclopedia Britanica 1997, Britanica online)

Numerous traces of late prehistoric civilizations in Mali have been found. Since approximately AD 300, caravan routes across the Sahara linked the Niger River to Morocco and southern Algeria and transported ivory, gum, ostrich feathers, gold and slaves. At the origin of these routes were the Soninke empire of Ghana and the Malinke empire of Mali from which the country derives its name. In the 15th century the Songhai empire in the Timbuktu-Gao region ruled over much of Mali. In 1591 the Moroccan army invaded the area and Timbuktu remained under the Moors for two centuries. Following, the Niger River valley was divided between the Tuaregs in the region of Gao, the Fulani in Macini and the Bambara in the kingdom of Segou. In the middle of the 19th century, the French conquered the area and it became part of French West Africa. In 1946 the area, then called the French Sudan, became an overseas territory of the French Union.

Present day Mali was proclaimed the Sudanese Republic in 1958. One year later it was united with Senegal to form the Mali Federation. Senegal seceded on September 22, 1960, creating the Republic of Mali. Modiba Keita, the first president and was in power until the regime was overthrown by the military in 1968. A new constitution was adopted in 1974 and the military continued to assume power under the dictatorship of Moussa Traore until a coup in 1991. A new constitution was approved by referendum in 1992, providing for the current multiparty, democratic system of government.

Mali is one of the poorest countries in the world. Much of the population are subsistence farmers that produce cotton, cattle, goats, sheep, corn, millet, rice and peanuts. Cotton and livestock are key products, providing 70 per cent of the country's exports. Principal trading partners include Cote d'Ivoire and Senegal. The nation's other natural resources include kaoalin, limestone, uranium, iron ore, bauxite, tin and manganese.

Bruce, Last weekend KPFA broadcast a program featuring the Cora, and it was mentioned that it is probably the precurser to the banjo. It was also mentioned that women are not allowed to be taught how to play this instrument in some African countries. Is Mali one of those countries?

(from the webmaster on feb 14) When I initially communicated this question no one knew the answer (although Bruce mentioned he had seen women playing stringed instruments - but not specifically a Kora. But today Bruce had a discussion with a Tuareg gentleman who had interesting things to say about the historical role of women in Tuareg society. Find this audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 14.

What is the most common greeting for the locals?

(from USC liaison) Men and women in most Malian ethnic groups shake hands when meeting. A man of power (such as the village chief) will always initiate a handshake. Otherwise, a person joining a group or entering a room initiates a handshake with each adult present, beginning with the eldest or most senior. Among the Moors and Tuaregs, men do not shake women's hands. Verbal greetings vary among ethnic groups and can last for several minutes and become quite poetic. Among friends, greetings are usually followed by inquiries about family members and their health. It is impolite not to greet someone when passing by them. "Ykakene?" is the common Bambara greeting, or Ca va? in french. If someone's language is not known, a person may use one of the more commonly spoken languages as a greeting and the other will respond in his or her language. People generally address each other by their first names because the family name provides information about one's ethnic and social background.

What are the positive actions being taken by local people to stop and reverse desertification?

Find an audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today. Or read below...

(from USC liaison) In the Douentza region in Northern Mali, entire communities are involved in the struggle against desertification. With the support of USC Canada, one community, Badiari, has used local knowledge to come up with an innovative program to reclaim pockets of land. One of their first steps was to form an environmental protection association. One of the groups main concerns was the protection of trees, particularly the "acacia albida". Villagers had noticed when this tree was cut down, crop yields were seriously affected. The tree is important to a healthy environment.....it is a natural nitrogen-fixer and contributes to the natural fertility of the soil. The Association educated the residents about the importance of the tree and they also introduced a system of sanctions against persons found cutting down the trees. Today Badiari is flourishing and fields of sorghum and millet produce a better crop than before. Surrounding communities are learning from this example and are working to establish similar communities.

: Another example is the village of Gono where the local people have established an arboretum in the yard of the school. This arboretum not only helps protect the surrounding land from desertification, but it also provides the local children with a natural learning environment. Children tend to the trees on a daily basis. The program has been so successful that the local community is now establishing a second arboretum.

These are many more examples of programming designed to stem the effects of desertification.

"From here to Timbuktu". Where did that saying come from anyway?

(from USC film liaison) The story behind that saying may be as ancient as Timbuktu itself, which history books will tell you dates back as far as the 5th century when the city was a main stop along the trans-Saharan trade route. It seems more recently that many people believed that Timbuktu was actually a fictitous/fabled city at the end of the earth! Most were surprised to learn it was in Mali! (Maybe Bruce can shed some light on this when he visits the great city later this week.)

What do children in Mali eat for lunch and if they have a favorite game?

Find an answer from USC film liaison Friederike Knabe by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 11

Here are the questions and answers.

Have any dinosaur bones been found in Mali?

(from USC Canada film liaison) Dinosaurs....in Mali? Very good question and sorry to report that we can neither confirm or deny their past presence at this point. I can give you an idea of some of the other kinds of "wildlife" there. Of course, lots of snakes (cobras), scorpions and mosquitoes. Other natives include cheetahs, oryx, gazelles, giraffes, warthogs, leopards, lions, panthers, antelopes, jackals, elephants, hyenas, crocodiles, hippos, monkeys and even ostriches!!!! How's that for diversity!

UPDATE: We spoke with Richard Day at the Canadian Museum of Nature and he has confirmed that some fragments of the "long necked variety" of dinosaur were unearthed in the early 60's by a Parisien. The find was near Gao, which is about a day's drive from Douentza and where USC used to have a project. Gao is situated along the Niger River which, according to Day, explains the find.

Bruce, as a Christian, how do you feel about being in a Muslim country? Is their faith a "cultural" thing like Christianity is in America?

Find Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE and listening to the RealAudio interview recorded today.

What can we do here in the United States to help?

(from USC film liaison) Showing interest and concern in the issues the people of Mali are facing is a good first step in getting involved. Why not pass the web site address on to your family and friends? This helps generate awareness. Of course, organizations like USC Canada are always eager to welcome new supporters to their work. (To check out the USC website click here.) There are also lots of organizations in the US working in West Africa and dealing with the issue of desertification. I am sure they would also love to hear from you.

This isn't specifically a Bruce question, but it is inspired by his "Little Sea Horse", so I guess he get's it anyway?? Was wondering about the population there. Is there a fair representation across all age groups?? What's the average life span of folks there?? Is the infant mortality rate excessive?? (This is so cool to be able to converse with all of you in Mali.)

(from USC film liaison) The official population of Mali (as of 1994) was 9 million. It is estimated that the 1998 population figure is around 11.5 milliion and this will grow to 15 million by the year 2010. Breaking down the population: 50 percent is under the age of 15....only two per cent over the age of 65. Around 25 per cent of the population lives in urban centres. Life expectancy for a Malian male is 46 years, for a female, 50 years. The infant mortality is 149 deaths per 1000 births.

To Bruce: What about Mali has moved you most, especially in light of all the travelling you've done in the past? To 'The Team': Are there plans to show your film or release the video in the UK?

As far as part one of your question is concerned...

Find an audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE

As far as part two is concerned... not currently but possibly by the fall.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 12

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Has Bruce encountered any other new and unusual musical instruments on the trip so far?

The answer (so far) would have to be the Kora. (Link note: click here to leave this site and find info on the Kora.)

What does Bruce finds the most striking difference so far between Mali and Mozambique. Has he some inspiration for a song about Mali. Like the song "Mines of Mozambique" on The Charity of Night album.

Find an audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE

What kind of role does reforestation play in modifying the climate in Mali? How much forest has to be replanted before this effect can be measured?

(from USC film liaison and CIDA) We went back to our experts at CIDA for the answer to this one. They say they don't think it is possible to quantify the effect that reforestation has on modifying the climate in Mali. There are a number of factors that are involved, including what type of forest is planted, whether you plant indigenous trees or not and whether you are looking at micro climate changes or global climate changes.

At USC, we can talk about the example of the village of Badiari, in northern Mali. Years back, the village residents were cutting down the acacia albida trees for firewood. The community at the time was noticing that subsequent harvest were poor. They instituted a system of sanctions for anyone found cutting down the acacia albida. Since that system has been in place, and the forest has been protected, harvests have been much better. In fact this past year, while other villages suffered from a poor crop, the village of Badiari had a strong harvest. The acacia albida forest has helped retain moisture in the soil and protected it from further erosion. A little further away, in the village of Gono, the residents planted an arboretum two years ago, that is now flourishing. It has been so successful that they have planted a second.

Has the team been involved in activities such as helping to promote the use of efficient stoves made from local materials that would reduce the amount of wood used for fuel?

(from USC film liaison and CIDA) Yes, USC has been involved in promoting the use of improved cook stoves in the Douentza region, where the bulk of their Mali programming takes place. The program has been quite successful. The stoves are definitely more efficient for cooking. They also produce less smoke, which is better for the health of the women and children who are involved in cooking.

For the crew, technical questions:

  • 1.what (if any) computer equip do you have with you in the field?
  • 2.how much of the Real Audio/website admin is being done back in Canada?
  • 3.sat. link up--how does that work and what exactly are you using (cellular phone or something?)
  • 4. can we expect any RealMedia picture feed?
  • 5. do you have some sort of alt power (solar recharger) for when you're way out there and
  • can't plug in to recharge batteries?
  • 6. what are you using to record sound (Nagra, DAT, etc) ?

(from the webmaster)
  • 1. A palmtop for taking notes.
  • 2. All administration is done back in Canada.
  • 3. We're using a small (laptop size) satellite phone.
  • 4. There may be in a couple of weeks.
  • 5. The satellite phone plugs in to a car cigarette lighter. (Today's Daily Journal was recorded with the satellite phone powered in this way.)
  • 6. Sound for the interviews is recorded from the webmaster's phone directly into his computer, then converted to RealAudio format and uploaded to the server.

I'm a video and multi-media producer and I was just curious how the scripting is handled for a program such as this. Do you have anything scripted in advance, or do you work from a basic treatment and go from there?

(from the webmaster) I use BBEdit (just basically a fancy text processor) and while the non-interactive parts of the site were programmed in advance (natch) I just do the programming for the new parts day by day.

Bruce, how easy is it to play a metal guitar in 40oC heat? Keeping it in tune must be hell. And given the conductivity of metal, your guitar must get "hot" - literally. Has the Dobro blinded anyone yet?

Find an audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE

One of the best ways to begin to understand a country is to read its writers. I went into the largest bookstore in Seattle and asked if they had any authors from Mali. After we got past "Where???" they found their only book for me, "Bound to Violence" by Yambo Ouologuen. I've only started it, but it's a great read. Would the team know of authors from Mali (poetry, short stories, novels) whose work would be available in North America? (Either French or English is fine. I can read both.)

(from the webmaster) As of Feb 25 I'm still trying to put a list together.

Are the problems in Mali problems that changes in Canadian/US foreign policy could elleviate, or are private efforts the best way to assist?

(from USC Canada film liaison) A combination of both really. Speaking from the point of view of Canada, NGOs and government must work hand in hand to be most effective. For problems like desertification, CIDA has made this issue one of its priorties, as have a number of organizations who work in Mali. There has also been an international call to action surrounding the issue of desertification. June 17 has been designated by the United Nations General Assembly as a day to recognize the 1994 signing of the International Convention to Combat Desertification and Drought. The convention provides a framework for national, regional and sub-regional programs to counter desertification. For more information, surf to the CIDA website.

What are your impressions of the Niger River?

(from the webmaster - Feb. 15) Although I know this is not a complete answer... For specific encounter with a ferry across the Niger go to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 15.

What does Bruce finds the most striking difference so far between Mali and Mozambique. Has he some inspiration for a song about Mali. Like the song "Mines of Mozambique" on The Charity of Night album.

Find an audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 13

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Bruce Cockburn's travels have spanned the globe. What impact, if any, do the Mali people have on his spiritual world view?

Check out Bruce's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 27.

Question for Bruce---have you discovered the Malian equivalent of Tungba yet???!

Find an audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 14

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Why did the drought occur?

Check out the answer to a similar question by clicking here.

Bruce, How long have you been helping out with Mali?

(from the webmaster) Bruce sort of answered this already when he answered a question about why he is interested in helping out in Mali. To find this answer click here.

Even here in Canada palm-top computers and satellite phones are not common-place. How is everything/ everybody standing up to the sand and heat.

Find an audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 14.

We would like to know more about children in Mali, traditional musical instruments (are " drums" popular in Mali?)

The team hasn't had significant contact with children as yet. I will ask this question in a few days. But... to find an audio answer about the popularity of drums, go to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 15.

Have you had any interesting food or drink since you've been in Mali?

Find an audio answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE

I am curious about the wildlife. Any animal sitings? Anything dangerous roaming around there, other than the crew?

(from the webmaster) Today the crew saw hippos in the Niger river. I will add to this answer with a list of animal sightings as they occur.

Find an audio answer to what animals the team saw today by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 14.

UPDATE FEBRUARY 27: Check out a more comprehensive answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 27.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 15

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Is there much medical care accessable to the people of Mali?

Check out Friedrike's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 16.

I'm currently beginning to study economics, and would like to know a bit about the economic conditions in Mali, both from the standpoint of the impact of economic forces on the causes of desertification and also the economic impact that the widening desert has had on the people.

(from USC Canada) According to the Microsoft Encarta 98 Encyclopedia, Mali's economy is predominantly agricultural and crops depend almost entirely on irrigation or flooding from the Niger River and its tributaries. Therefore the bulk is centred around the southern portion of the country. In the north, sahel region, where Douentza is located, farming is at the subsistence level and cash crops provide a valuable income supplement. Encyclopedia Britanica '97 online states that progress in the rural sector has been limited by unfavourable climate, by periodic droughts since the late 1960s and by low levels of technology. More in more in the northern portion of the country, NGOs like USC Canada are working with the local people to try to lessen the economic impact of desertification on communities. In previous years it was not uncommon for entire villages to be abandoned during a poor harvest because people had no other option but to move to the city. USC has been working to help provide alternative activities which will allow more people to stay. For example, market garden projects have been instituted to provide a second harvest in the year (during the dry season) and also to generate income. Land management programs are also being implemented. Desertification does drain the livelihood of communities and programming has been designed to help alleviate this strain.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 16

I think I should mention that some of today's material is more appropriate for adults than children. Surfer Discretion is advised. Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Do you anticipate any opportunities to observe or participate in some traditional African religious ceremonies, and if so, whether you see any active role for the women in these. Also, is the tradition of female genital mutilation practiced anywhere in Mali?

(from the webmaster) In answer to the first question... Because Mali is a Muslim country the team has seen (but not taken part in) Muslim expressions of faith. In answer to your second question... please check out Friedrike's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 16.

For the Producers: I am ignorant of the political situation in Mali. Was/is it difficult to film in and around the drought area without interference from the local government?

(from USC film liaison) Not so far. Generally the government departments, including the local one in the Douentza district, are very cooperative. It is necessary however to get the proper authorizations and permits from the various government departments before filming can take place. The federal department responsible for this area will also issue paperwork, similar to a licence, which must be carried by the crew at all times. In Douentza, that involves meeting with the local administrative office on arrival for clearance. In each village, the film crew meets with the leader of the community to obtain approval...mostly just formality. For Friedrike's take on the government of Mali in general please check this entry in our Daily Journal

For Mr. Cockburn: Have you had a chance to play (music, not soccer) with any local musicians and can you hear American Blues in the way indiginous musicians play?

(from the webmaster) Bruce has already had a few musical encounters. I invite you to check the Daily Journal for February 11, February 12 and February 15.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 17

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

The comparison of the status of women given by your Tuareg guide intrigued me. What are your observations of the lives of the women your team has encountered along the way?

(from the webmaster) This is obviously an important question and over the next little while you will find answers from several sources but for starters... Check out Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 17.

In the Timbuctoo area, I'm sure there's a reasonable population, being a tourist-trap and all, but are there groups of nomadic people anywhere along the way that can be seen as one travels? Or is travel pretty much a solitary pursuit?

Check out Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 17.

Anything about the trip anxiety-provoking (besides the sand...)?

(from the webmaster) The general answer from the team seems to be "no" but producer Robert Lang answered the question from a documentary filmmaker's perspective. Check out Bob's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 17.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 18

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Since I've just turned six, I'd like to ask what the kids are like in the part of Mali that you are in now? Are they smiley, shy, friendly, curious, frightened? And are the kids different from villiage to villiage?

Check out Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 18. And/or read this answer below (from USC film liaison): One of the things you find when you travel to a country like Mali is that kids are pretty much the same everywhere you go. They like to play games and sports, they do laugh and smile a lot and like everywhere some are shy and others are really friendly and will come right up to you. They are always curious as to what you are up to. In Mali, kids who go to school learn french so they are able to communicate with you pretty well also. I can't say there's much of a difference between village to village, but there is a difference between city kids and kids in the rural areas, especially in what they are interested in. So it's just like here in Canada that way too! But they don't have e-mail...or at least most of them don't.

How do people cope with the heat there, what sort of clothes do they wear and stuff like that?

Check out Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 18. And/or read this answer below (from USC film liaison): The people in Mali are pretty used to the heat. One of the things that you notice right away is that people take a break for a couple of hours in the afternoon because it gets so hot it is difficult to work or go to school.....their breaks are just like a Mexican siesta. So they take it pretty easy in the mid-afternoon sun. The most common material for clothing is cotton and a lot of people wear robes that are kind of like loose flowing gowns. A lot of women will wear scarfs wrapped around their heads to protect them for the heat as well. At this time of year, not only is it very hot but it is also very, very windy!

I'm interested in the interactions between the various Malians, i.e. officials and citizens, elders and children, 'haves' and 'have nots' (what do the 'haves' actually have that set them apart?).

Check out Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 18.

Has Bruce seen any amazing wildlife over there?

Check out an earlier answer on wildlife by clicking here.

Are the instruments there a lot different that the one's in Canada?

(from the webmaster) Because this was a very general question I actually asked Bruce to describe the difference between our guitars and Malian guitars. Check out Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 20.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 19

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

By the way... Bruce is slightly under the weather today (just slightly... don't worry) so he won't be able to answer today's questions today... but tune in again tomorrow and hopefully you'll find his answers here then. (The rest of the team is just fine.)

What other forms of fuel for cooking etc. are being offered/made available (and from what source) to the people of the area to keep them from harvesting the fews trees in the landscape that are helping hold back the desertification? Sorry I can't make this a shorter question!

For an ealier answer to a similar question click here.

Has Bruce seen any interesting native beadwork?

Will ask.

As a veteran observer of several Third World countries, what has surprised you most about Mali so far?

Check out Bruce's answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 20.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 20

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Good news about Bruce's health... He figures he just had some sunstroke yesterday and he's fine today. (He actually said he'd "checked himself out of the Ebola ward" but I'm darn sure he was just joking.) So... scroll up to check out questions and answers for yesterday. We're catching up with a few questions today and we'll catch up with a few more tomorrow.

Bruce, want forms of spirituality exist there? What are some of their rituals? Is there anything with which you particularly identified? Thanks.

While Bruce has said before that Mali is a Muslim country (and the team has yet to witness any other kinds of expressions of faith) Bruce does talk about the "spirit" of the people in one of his answers on the DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 21.

For Bruce: You mentioned that the players with Ali Farka Toure the other night had more of a North African or Arabic sound. I was wondering about the new arrangement of the intro of Pay Your Money which you played on tour last year: was this influenced by North African/Arabic music? Are there African players that you listen to/are influenced by?

(from Bruce) Yes the intro was inspired by Arab influenced music. It uses something approaching an Arabic scale. There was no specific influence but in a general sort of way that was the case. But I've listened to hundreds of Arabic and African musicians so it's hard to kind of... pick the important ones out of there.

I am in first grade. My class is learning about Africa. Are you near the equator? How old do the kids there have to be before they can plant a garden alone?

(from the webmaster) In answer to the first question... The Douentza region is about 15 degrees north of the equator (which is pretty close). If you want to see exactly where they are on the earth click here to check out our views of Mali from space.

(from the film team) In answer to the second part of the question... The children start planting the gardens when they are about seven. They always work in groups and always with supervision.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 21

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

From your immediate experience of Africa, can you comment on how Africa is portrayed in the movies? For most of us, we'll never have the opportunity to actually visit Africa. Which movie or movies (if any, beside the one you're making) capture best the Africa you're experiencing now?

(from the webmaster) Currently - as of Feb 25 - I'm taking a poll of this film team and others. I will put a list of films here shortly.

What exactly is an escarpment?

(from USC film liaison) In the Douentza region of Mali, what is being referred to as an escarpment resembles a cliff. These cliffs dot the landscape for approximately 100 miles in the northern region. The cliffs have been, over time, sources of refuge for the local people.

What do people in Mali think of Canada, assuming they know about us at all. (I would guess that most Canadians don't even know where Mali is.) The "land of ice and snow" must seem surreal to people living in a desert.

Check out Bruce's VERY SURPRISING answer by going to our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 21.

And also read this answer from USC film liaison: The Malian people definitely know about "the land of ice and snow". In the more urban centres particulary, the Malians seemed to know quite a lot about the political scene here, particularly in relation to Quebec sovereignty and are often curious as to what the current situation is in relation to that issue. Because Mali is a french speaking country, many people seem to have a connection to Quebec and many speak of friends or relatives who are living in Montreal. As a Canadian travelling in the country, you can often be mistaken for a European, but when they find out you are from Canada often the response is the same: "Canada, it is a good country!" To give them an idea of the winters we face, the film crew took with them a few photos of the ice storm which struck Eastern Ontario and Quebec in January.

To Bruce Cockburn: As a creative person I know that you have gained inspiration from these adverse situations in the past, but do you feel this inspiration at the time (when you are in amongst it all) or does it come to you after you leave and have the luxury of being able to look back from on it from a broader perspective? Have you felt inspired yet by the people; their reaction to their circumstances; the country; etc.?

Check out Bruce's answer to this question on the DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 21.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 23

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Is the host (Mr. Cockburn) finding the internet technology more appealing, personally, now that this example of its ability to make the world so much smaller is part of his personal experience?

(from the webmaster) Look for an answer to this one at the very end of the trip (around March 2).

Are other forms of fuel being made available to the people for their stoves, other than wood? I know they've been offered more efficient stoves, but what about alternate sources of FUEL?

Check out USC film liaison Friedrike Knabe's answer to this question on the DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 23.

Also... USC Canada reports that their program officer for Mali says that wood and twigs are still the primary source of fuel for stoves, along with charcoal. Although many African countries are experimenting with different sources of fuel including bio-gases, he has not noticed this being used in the Douentza region of Mali, where the bulk of USC's programming takes place. What sort of a diet have you had over there? What sort of things do the local people eat?

Although Bruce answered a similar question last week, at that time they were in a different part of Mali. To find out what people are eating in the Douentza region check out the DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 23.

What is the Canadian team expecting to come out of this documentary. (i.e help for Mali, public awareness, generate cash relief, evangelistic outreach to local people, political agenda)

Check out USC film liaison Friedrike Knabe's answer in our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 24.

Does Bruce hold American Christians in any sort of "low opinion" (e.g. is corporate guilt an issue for an American believer in these troubled times).

(from the webmaster) In general Bruce's answer to the first part of the question was to the effect that he tries to judge people as individuals but he had more to say about the "corporate guilt" part of the question as you'll see on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 24.

Who inspired you to write "The strong one"?

(from the webmaster) I get the sense this is "classified information" since Bruce's answer was... "The person I was with at the time."

You have mentioned music many times in the daily journals (public playing, weddings, etc). In the United States, music has been helpful during troubled times (i.e. Blues music). Do you find music an important part of that culture? Please descibe how accessible it is to them.

Check out Bruce's answer to this question on the DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 23.

What is the perception that the people of Mali have of what's happening in the world (IRAQ crisis, etc...) and how about yours, how do you look at these big events from a place so distant (in many ways...) and peaceful like Mali?

Check out Bruce's answer to this question on the DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 23.

Do you have the possibility to put on line some pictures of the team in Mali? Are you going to in the future?

(from the webmaster) Until the team gets back we will continue to put up RealAudio of answers to questions and entries in the Daily Journals. After the team gets back in March we will put up pictures from the trip and (perhaps) video and music clips. (We MAY also continue the questions and answers portion of the site while broadening it to include questions and answers on development issues in other countries.)

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 24

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

You mentioned in yesterday's daily journal that a lot of people play radios all the time, and you also mentioned that there is no electricity in Ibisa. Do people spend a lot on batteries? Is this a problem? Does anyone use wind-up radios?

Check out USC film liaison Friedrike Knabe's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 24.

You mentioned that Mali is a Muslim country. Are other religions practised too (like animism)?

Check out Bruce Cockburn's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 24.

How much of the original desert has encroaced upon areas which are not traditional desert areas?

(from Jan Sheltinga from CIDA's Desertification Convention Office) In response to your question about the amount of land affected by desertification... books have been written challenging the various figures used about the amount of land affected by desertification over the past three decades. Here are a few relevant facts:
*nearly one-quarter of the world's total land area is dryland, excluding hyper-arid areas (ie. deserts), and at risk from desertification;
*land degradation occurs everywhere, but is only defined as 'desertification' when it occurs in the drylands;
*approximately 5.2 billion hectares are considered to be dryland across the globe;
*about 70 per cent of the 5.2 billion hectares are already degraded.

How will the documentary be used during desertification day? (eg. will it be promoted and shown on June 17th on National TV)

(from the webmaster) Currently, the film is scheduled to be broadcast for the first time on Vision TV till this coming fall.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 25

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Since you'll be leaving the Douentza regions soon... What are you tired of and what will you miss?

Check out Bruce Cockburn's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 25.

Where does the name "River Of Sand" come from?

Check out Robert Lang's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 25.

What can be done from here (midwest U.S.) to help directly? Are there any honest not-for-profits that support your efforts?

(from USC Canada) What we came up with is an American group that has a listing of different organizations that work internationally. It is...

Interaction
1717 Massachusetts Ave N.W.
Suite 801
Washington, DC 20036

If you'd like further information you can contact us (USC - Unitarian Service Committee) at: phone (202) 667-8227; fax (202) 667-8236

For Bruce: In spite of obvious differences in culture, dress, skin color, diet and music. Do you get a sense of the underlying sameness in daily concerns, emotions and humanity between the people of Mali and the rest of us?

(from the webmaster) Will ask.

I'm curious, have you seen any evidence that multi-national corporations have had a negative impact on Mali--in terms of the environment or in other ways?

(from Bruce) "A reserved 'yes.' I think so but I think we should leave it at that."

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 26

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

Do you find anything resembling a sign language, or a language of the body, that helps you when in such a very different culture?

Check out Bruce Cockburn's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 26.

Do the people of Mali have values that you see missing in the Western world?

Check out Bruce Cockburn's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 26.

What is it that you are trying to accomplish through this film, and this website?

(from filmmaker Robert Lang) We're hoping to present a picture of country that most people aren't aware and present a problem that's happening to a great many people in the world - that is: desertification - in a way that is both entertaining and informative - to approach the subject in a way that allows people to see the implications on real live human beings.

Bruce's involvement - and the Malian music - is an important linking element to what's going on here because - as Bruce has said - the music is central to the lives of the people.

What groups compose the population of Mali?

(from USC Canada) Mali's inhabitants can be divided into the following groups based on language and livelihood:
Mande (includes Bambara, Malinke, and Sarakole) 50 per cent
Peul 17 per cent
Voltain 12 per cent
Tuareg and Moor 10 per cent
Songhai 6 per cent
Other 5 per cent

The official language is French, although Bambara is spoken by 80 per cent of the the population. Breakdown by religious beliefs is 90 per cent Muslim, 9 per cent indigenous beliefs, 1 per cent Christian

I read you play your music for the people, the children, etc... What reaction do they have to your songs? Do you think you succeeded in communicate through your music to those people who live in villages in Mali?

Check out Bruce's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for March 1.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: February 27

Find questions and answers below and also check out today's Daily Journal.

For Martin and Diane: How would you compare the current trip to Mali to the one you took in October as far as landscape, environment etc. How much drier have have you found it? how much hotter?....What kind of differences have they noted in activities the people are doing etc? (I'm curious because everyone tells me the difference between seeing Mali at the end of the rainy season versus winter season is very dramatic).

Check out the answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 27.

Have you seen a lot of animals? If so, how different are they from Canada?

Check out the answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for February 27.

Bruce: 'Don't know much about Turkish drummers..': What do you know now about Mali's drummers? Is there anything particularly unusual about rhythms and playing style?

Check out the answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for March 1.

Do you feel that the human and musical contact being made by you and your team will have a lasting effect on the people you've met and why?

Check out Bruce's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for March 1.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: March 1

This are the last questions which will be answered by Bruce Cockburn and the film team. To everyone who asked a question: THANKS for taking part. Our INTERACTION produced over 100 questions and answers. And... if we didn't manage to answer your question...SORRY! We tried! (This site will remain interactive till at least January 1999 but from now on all questions about Mali will be answered on a weekly basis by USC Canada.)

Also... don't miss our final Daily Journal for March 1.

Bruce: What have you personally concluded from this trip about the future effectiveness of anti-desertification efforts in Mali.

Check out Bruce's (hopeful) answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for March 1.

What is life like for highschool students in Mali?

Check out the Friedrike's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for March 1.

Do the people of Mali have a written or oral history and how is this history passed down from generation to generation?

Check out the Friedrike's answer on our DAILY JOURNAL PAGE for March 1.

(Pragmatic) Rules: