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All About Africa
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Poverty“Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life. While poverty persists, there is no true freedom.” - Nelson Mandela. The following African countries were part of the top ten poorest countries in the world in terms of per capita GDP in 2003: While it is true that several African countries are prospering at present, it is still true that poverty is one of the biggest challenges facing many African countries today. At the moment, there is much talk of the G7 summit in London where the issue of Global Poverty is being discussed by ministers of the most economically powerful countries in the world. One of the biggest obstacles in overcoming poverty is undoubtedly the issue of foreign debt and ministers are coming under severe pressure to ease the burden of debt for the world's poorest countries. A giant clock began counting the deaths of children in poverty while G7 financial power brokers gathered for dinner at opulent Lancaster House on Friday to discuss debt relief. Supporters said the clock would count the 26,300 children who would die from poverty over the duration of the G7 meetings. "G7 -- drop the debt," the few dozen demonstrators chanted to the beat of drums outside the G7 dinner of central bankers and finance ministers. "The current level of debt cancellation delivered by the international community is shamefully inadequate," said Martin Powell, spokesman for World Development Movement, sponsor of the clock. Source: Alertnet, Feb 5 2005. Online Resources
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