The Commission for Africa, a high-level group chaired by UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, has proposed that rich countries double aid to Africa from 2006 and that African countries be given preference in exporting goods to rich countries, reported the South African newspaper Business Day on Tuesday.
The commission – which aims to advise rich countries on how best to assist Africas development – published a consultation document on its website last week. A final report is expected in March. The UK will next year hold the presidencies of both the European Union and the Group of Eight (G-8) industrialized countries, giving it an opportunity to put Africas development at the top of wealthy countries agendas.
To improve investment prospects, the commission proposes that rich countries ensure long-term financial support for infrastructure programs envisaged by the New Partnership for Africas Development and other
regional bodies. The commission said it would propose a rapid and time-tabled reduction of subsidies that rich countries pay farmers – to counter an oversupply of agricultural goods that suppresses prices and harms African economies.
Another South African newspaper, the Cape Argus adds the commission says drastic measures are
needed if Africa is to have any chance of meeting the Millennium Development Goals.
Kilde: World Bank Press Review
