THE GREAT AFRICAN SCANDAL

Film screening

THE GREAT AFRICAN SCANDAL (no certificate)

AFRICAN SCANDAL is screening on Wed 20 Feb at The Drum at 7.30PM. In this thought-provoking film made with the help of Christian Aid, Broadcaster and Theologian, Robert Beckford undertakes a hard-hitting, emotional journey to Ghana in Africa. He discovers the hidden costs of three high street goods: rice, chocolate and gold. Robert wants to find out why, 50 years after independence, a country rich in natural resources is still one of the poorest in the world. He looks at whether the activities of multinationals, as well as the World Bank and IMF, have actually made countries such as Ghana worse off.

This film is a damning indictment on the West’s economic policies towards Africa. He film uncovers how the current trade system penalises the global poor and was first broadcast on Channel 4 in Sep 2007:

“As a theologian, justice and the ongoing fight for change are central to my writing, teaching and film-making.”

Dr Robert Beckford

The film will be followed by a post-screen discussion by Dr Robert Beckford and the specially invited panel as they discuss the issues surrounding The Great African Scandal. This film shows the challenging and emotional journey Beckford took to Ghana. Add your voice to the movement of people who want to see Trade Justice for Africa.

Dir Ken Kirby, 30mins, No Certificate. Tickets are £4 (£3), book now on 0121 333 2444 or online at www.the-drum.org.uk.

Ends

MEDIA CONTACT: Sati Parmar on 0121 333 2404 or e-mail: s.parmar@the-drum.org.uk. Box Office: 0121 333 2444. www.the-drum.org.uk

Notes to Editors:

Dr Robert Beckford is the Reader in Black Theology and Popular Culture at Oxford Brookes University. He is also a regular broadcaster with Channel 4 Religion.

Trade Justice Movement – http://www.tjm.org.uk

Christian Aid – www.christianaid.org.uk

Dr Robert Beckford – www.robertbeckford.co.uk

Channel 4 Films – www.channel4.com/culture