Africa is fortunate in having a wealth of resources, both natural and human, which is the envy of many. Between 2000-2008, real Gross Domestic Product has risen by 4.9%, twice the rate of the previous two decades and faster than the global rate of 3.8%. Foreign Direct Investment has increased from USD10 billion to USD88 billion. Linked to a young now healthier population, 30% world's mineral reserves and renewable energy reserves, the continent has the potential to outperform others and benefit all. 
Improvements in macroeconomic conditions and the business climate have all contributed to this growth surge. Average inflation has fallen from 22% in 1990's to 8% after 2000. Foreign debt has reduced by a quarter and budget deficits by two thirds.
However, growth has to be long lasting to deliver the promise that Africa holds. We see securing economic growth as the most sustainable way to generate the resources needed for development. Increased openness of trade, lowering of corporate taxes, strengthening of regulatory and legal systems and improved critical infrastructure (both social and physical) are all key factors to energising the markets to enable enterprise.
Growth acceleration has started to improve conditions for Africa's people by reducing the poverty rate. Significant challenges still exist but economic growth can raise much needed funds to meet public service demands.
Transforming lives is tangible evidence of improved conditions. Increased access to healthcare through improved secured supply chain, building capacity within the healthcare system particularly in times of economic hardship have meant secure delivery of live-saving medicines, bednets, contraceptives and essential equipment to help fight disease and malnutrition.
Mo Ibrahim, founder and chairman of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation comments "What Africa requires is excellent leadership that can entrench good governance at an institutional level. This goal requires a broader conception of good governance, which moves beyond the traditional emphasis on elections and legitimacy to an understanding of the components of a well-governed society". He goes on to define good governance as "the successful delivery, by government or non-state actors, of those public goods and services that citizens have a right to expect".
We help build this confidence and meet immediate needs by supporting countries to build their capacity to manage finances and respond to public expectations inclusively and accountably.