"Africa has begun to make progress in the long battle against poverty. The United Kingdom and other rich countries have our part to play. At the Gleneagles Summit in 2005, with enormous public support, G8 countries agreed to provide an extra US$50 billion a year in aid by 2010 and to double aid for Africa. And we are now working to make sure these promises are met."

"But that is only part of the picture. It is of course for Africa to lead Africa's development. It is for African leaders to drive forward policies and plans for reducing poverty; for African leaders to combat corruption; for African leaders to end bad governance. Your new Foundation aims to reward and encourage exemplary leadership - an aim which has my full support. I wish the Foundation every success in this important work."