- World renowned Malian musician, Salif Keita, becomes the first ACBF Goodwill Ambassador
Renowned Malian singer, Salif Keita, better known around the world as the "Golden Voice of Africa", is to support the African Capacity Building Foundation in its capacity development efforts on the continent. The widely acclaimed and distinguished artist, who this year won winner the Victoires de la musique award, the French equivalent of the Grammy Awards in the "World music" category, has many international accolades. A passionate advocate on issues affecting the African continent, Mr Keita will highlight need to scale up funding to capacity development initiatives in Africa in order to create and implement better economic policies for sustainable growth and poverty eradication.
On engaging the well respected musician, ACBF Executive Secretary, Dr Frannie Leautier said: "ACBF and our Goodwill Ambassadors are committed to working together towards achieving ACBF's vision for Africa as a continent that is recognized for its socio-political and economic capabilities and endowments a continent with effective institutions and policies acquired through sustained investment in people and institutions. We are delighted that Salif Keita has agreed to support our mission at this important time. As we celebrate twenty years of capacity building in Africa, we are thrilled to have such an eloquent and passionate supporter and development partner."
ACBF Goodwill Ambassadors are internationally-recognized celebrities, who are willing to undertake social mobilisation for capacity building among the broader community. Whether they live on the continent or belong to the Diaspora, they all demonstrate a strong link with Africa. They operate in various fields: arts, media, business, sports or science.
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
ACBF was established in February 1991. It is the outcome of collaboration between African governments and the international donor community. Its mission is to build sustainable human and institutional capacity for sustainable growth and poverty reduction in Africa. ACBF's vision is for Africa to be recognized for its socio-political and economic capabilities and endowments a continent with effective institutions and policies acquired through sustained investment in people and institutions. The Foundation aims to become a leader, major partner, and centre of excellence for capacity building in Africa.
