Round Table for Africa

The Programme of Action endorsed at the Round Table for Africa-held in Nigeria from 5 to 6 September-charts a five-year plan to strengthen the rule of law on the continent.

The Programme suggests concrete steps to counter violence, corruption and crime, all of which are cause and consequence of Africa's underdevelopment, according to a UNODC study discussed at the Round Table.

In his opening message, UNODC Executive Director Antonio Maria Costa urged African States to take effective action against the stumbling blocks to sustainable development. "The goals of prosperity, security and peace can be reached", Mr. Costa said, "but the resources Africa generates and those Africa receives as development assistance or capital investment must be well spent".

Although the Round Table promoted an African solution to the continent's challenges, it also called on the international community to support the process, strengthen partnerships, and make available the resources needed to implement the 2006-2010 Programme of Action.

Senior government officials from the criminal justice system and representatives of funding partners, international financial institutions, development agencies, and civil society participated in the event hosted by the Nigerian government and organized by UNODC.

For further information, please visit www.unodc.org/art