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World Bank Group Statement on
Kenya
March 2, 2008
The World Bank Group welcomes the signing of the agreement and
creation of a coalition government to bring an end to the
political impasse. We commend the leaders for making this
important commitment towards peace and reconciliation. We applaud
Mr. Kofi Annan and his team for their
skillfull handling of this difficult process which they carried
out under the auspices of the African Union. "I am very pleased
that this work also draws attention to the root causes that led to
the recent crisis, including corruption, and wish to assure
Kenyans of the World Bank Group’s support for addressing them,"
added Robert B. Zoellick, World Bank Group President.
We are hopeful that this agreement marks the beginning of national
healing and urgent attention to the welfare of the poor and
vulnerable, including those affected by the recent violence. "It
is a unique
opportunity for all Kenyans to participate in coalition building
that transcends all boundaries at all levels of society," observed
Obiageli Katryn Ezekwesili, World Bank Vice President for the
Africa Region. We also hope that the peace agreement will focus
attention on broad-based reforms that have been central to our
dialogue about providing a stronger platform for accelerated
growth and poverty reduction.
The World Bank Group remains committed to working hand in hand
with the government and people of Kenya in building on the
country’s significant development achievements and improving the
welfare of all its people. The Bank will do its part to help
ensure a quick return to full economic activity, realization of
the country's considerable economic potential, and significantly
greater attention to equity and governance.
In recent years the World Bank Group has been assisting Kenya in
activities such as rebuilding infrastructure; providing free
primary education; developing small and medium enterprises,
including those owned by women; creating livelihood opportunities
in arid and semi-arid areas; and strengthening systems to reduce
opportunities for corruption.
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