In others, they require new ways of acting. The renunciation of violence as a means of gaining and holding power is only the beginning. Then must follow a renewed commitment to national development founded on sober, sound and uncorrupted economic policies. A number of African States have made good progress in recent years, but others continue to struggle. Poor economic performance and inequitable development have resulted in a near-permanent economic crisis for some States, greatly exacerbating internal tensions and greatly diminishing the government's capacity to respond to those tensions.
Good governance is now more than ever the condition for the success of both peace and development.
It is no coincidence that Africa's renaissance has come at a time when new and more democratic forms of government have begun to emerge and take root. What we have learned over the last decades is that with political will, rhetoric can truly be transformed into reality. Without it, not even the noblest sentiments will have a chance of success. Africa is an ancient continent. Its lands are rich and fertile enough to provide a solid foundation for prosperity.