You're reading my last editorial column for the year, and what a year it's been. Due to the global economic downturn many have had to work twice as hard this year and turning this final corner in December means that we've made it intact. There are too many unemployed people at this point in time all over the continent, but here's hoping 2010 will bear plenty of fruit to go around. Crisis or no crisis Africans kept their eyes glued to their TV sets with Bizcommunity Africa's top three Most Read Articles featuring Big Brother Africa 4, followed in fourth place by the Face of Africa 2009 search. Reality TV has definitely still got Africa hooked. In 2010 Africa will host the 19th FIFA World Cup. This alone means plenty of opportunities for the continent to shine in the year ahead. Even Zimbabwe seems to be making a recovery, albeit slowly. A major troubling issue Africa still needs to address is press freedom as journalists are continually harassed across the continent, sometimes to violent extremes, year-on-year. Let us all strive in the new year for a more accommodating society that respects freedom of speech and the right to information for all. We will be sending out the first of our 2010 newsletters on 11 January 2010. Until then, to all our subscribers, clients, contributors, business partners and visitors to our sites, may you all have a restful, peaceful, safe and enjoyable year-end break. Add your own message to our Festive Tribute 2009 page!

Sindy Peters, content manager
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