London — A group of Africans, concerned with the march of their continent, and the 'darkness' surrounding the ongoing negotiations between Africa and foreign nations, particularly the most industrialized group of nations -G8-, have agreed that a mechanism should be rapidly put in place to monitor these evolutions.

They have decided to set up NepadWatch which will be open to other Africans willing to have a frank debate on the march of Africa. NepadWatch will provide an accurate assessment of Africa's political, economic, social and cultural achievements; examine the role of the continental leadership and the African institutions.

In order to contribute to the entrenchment of positive values, such as those included in Nepad, they believe the African civic society, in Africa and in the diaspora, should mobilise their efforts to ensure that the opportunities raised by Nepad are not destroyed by reckless leaders.

NepadWatch intends also to ensure that bilateral and multilateral donors are properly monitored, their action relating to Africa adequately assessed, and their people informed from an African perspective.

NepadWatch would like to hear from all Africans willing to join the movement on the grounds of ethic and independence that will be its basis. Please send comments and suggestions to nepadwatch@allafrica.com. .