Africa
Zuma takes on the fashion world
The African National Congress (ANC) moves into fashion with a range of leather jackets.
Last modified: 26 Jan 2010 17:43

It seems President Jacob Zuma’s party; the African National Congress (ANC) is more concerned with launching a clothing line than attending to people problems.
ANC leather jackets launched earlier this week could be a hit in South Africa.
The jackets come in black, green and gold - colours representing one of Africa’s oldest revolutionary parties.
To give them that "glam" look the leather jackets have electric green patches for pockets, brightly coloured buttons, neon yellow zips, all topped off with the party's logo of a wheel, spear and shield.
They look like they'll glow in dark!
The cheapest - made from "genuine leather" - cost $217, while the most expensive $267.
I haven't seen anyone wearing them yet, but something tells me it will be quite a sight!
You never know they might be a huge hit. In Africa, leather jackets have always been popular in elite circles. Wearing one (usually black in colour) suggests you are part of the elite, stylish and loaded with cash. South Africa is no different.
But shouldn't politicians focus their energy on more pressing matters affecting the country like, I don't know, crime, unemployment, houses and service delivery?
Maybe proceeds from jacket sales will go towards helping South Africa's poor – maybe not?
I wonder what a poor family in a dusty poor township of South Africa thinks about their politicians latest venture. More than one-third of the population (roughly 20 million people) live in abject poverty.
Most can't even put food on the table.
Here is a link to the story – and the jackets in question.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/jan/24/anc-leather-jackets-jacob-zuma
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8474639.stm
