The new generation of African leaders faces a major challenge: lifting millions of people from poverty. This cannot be achieved without strong democratic societies; the functioning rule of law; the provision of health and educational facilities; an empowered civil society; and a framework conducive to strong economic growth. In other words, none of this can be achieved without good governance.

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation is an African initiative that has been established to:

• Stimulate debate on good governance across sub-Saharan Africa and the world.
• Provide objective criteria by which citizens can hold their Governments to account.
• Recognise achievement in African leadership and provide a practical way in which African leaders can build positive legacies on the continent when they have left office.