The Commision for Africa reported back last week - on Red Nose Day.
Tony Blair takes the presidency of Europe and the G8 later this year and he will use the report to drive change in Africa. I think this passage from the report sums it up:
Bold comprehensive action on a scale needed to meet the challenges can only be done through a new kind of partnership. In the past, contractual and conditional approaches were tried, and failed. What we are suggesting is a new kind of development, based on mutual respect and solidarity, and rooted in a sound analysis of what actually works. This can speed up progress, building on recent positive developments in Africa, towards a just world of which Africa is an integral part.
It's good to see "what actually works" is in there as surely this is the most important thing? Africa is not the West and a different approach is needed.
It was also good to see that Sir Bob Geldof is part of the commission - he will not put his name to some political talking shop. I am really hopeful that the commission will bring positive change to Africa.
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