Africa consultation

  

 Let the Commission focus not on new ideas but on adding value to NEPAD's existing efforts to end poverty in Africa. How? By putting together a "road map" for rich nations to contribute to Africa's own efforts, implementable through the G8 Action Plans. This must include a commitment by rich nations to tackle difficult issues - specifically, aid performance, cultural imperialism, debt, intellectual property protection, Northern subsidies and trade.

Don't let the Commission be just another talking shop: it must have a sustainable legacy beyond 2005:

         Let the many existing initiatives and networks within Africa and the diaspora that have relevant contributions to make to the Commission's work be fully involved;

         Pay attention to `process' issues: working relationships with NEPAD; listening to Africans; and - very importantly - practical targets to track implementation by rich nations and by NEPAD after 2005;

         Collect practical examples of what's already in place, personal success stories, and positive cultural experiences - the news from Africa is not all bad;

         "Changing minds" is needed as much as "money changing hands", but don't let the Commission duck issues of how it can contribute to resource mobilisation on behalf of Africa.

Clear priorities emerged between and within the Commission's theme areas:

         Governance and institutions: peace and security; incentives and responsibilities;

         Growth and resources: North-South relations; management of natural resources; public-private partnerships;

         Empowerment and culture: education.

click for FEEDBACK FROM AFRICAN RESEARCH AND NON-STATE ORGANISATIONS (html)

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