Blair: Business has 'critical role' in Africa

Tony Blair will today recognise the “critical role” to be played by the private sector in combating poverty in Africa.

In a recorded address to African leaders and international business chiefs, the British Prime Minister will highlight the role business needs to play in Africa’s future.

Mr Blair was unable to attend the G8 Business Action for Africa summit in London as he is promoting London’s Olympic 2012 bid in Singapore.

He will say: “You too have a critical role. The private sector is the engine for growth in Africa. Growth and development can only happen when governments and business work together.

“Business Action for Africa is already fostering the vigorous private sector engagement needed to create wealth, jobs and the momentum for growth. Your investment, expertise and practical ideas are essential to helping Africa share in the benefits of the global economy.”

Mr Blair is likely to welcome a conference proposal to develop an action plan for business during the two-day summit taking place on the eve of the G8 talks in Gleneagles, Scotland.

Among those attending will be President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria, President Levy Mwanawasa of Zambia, South African finance minister Trevor Manuel and British international development secretary Hilary Benn.

The event will focus on the actions that the business community will take to support poverty reduction in Africa while helping to create a positive climate for business and investment in African countries.