Statement by Mr. James D. Wolfensohn, President of the World Bank: Statement at ADF Conference

Abstract

Statement by Mr. James D. Wolfensohn, President of the World Bank at the ADF Conference. Mr. Wolfensohn, on his remarks highlighted that, in Africa we have the highest density of poverty. As we look at the Millennium Development Goals, we know that Africa is the most vulnerable place in terms of achieving these goals. Corruption was not invented in Africa. It is not the only place in the world that you find corruption. There are corruptors, and there are corruptees. There is a lot to be done on both sides of the corruption situation. This issue of corruption is the single worst cancer that there is. The issue in Africa of gender. Empowerment of women is the secret weapon of development. The issue of violence against women and the need to integrate women in all sectors of society is at the core of development in this continent. Africa has a history of governance. Africa has a history of consultation. Of communal agreement to own projects. The methodologies of reaching good governance are well-known. What is needed is the will and commitment to come out of these meetings and deal with these issues, to set a timetable.