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opment results. In this regard, the Steering Committee needs to leadthe way in creating a more results oriented approach that will enablevigorous assessments of progress in implementation of NEPADprogrammes as well as a move into creative and multidisciplinaryapproaches to development programming and the harnessing of effectivepartnerships with the African private sector and civil society.Global challenges also need to be clearly factored into Africa’s developmentplanning processes. The undeniable risk of climate change,rising energy and food prices, a looming currency crisis and issues ofsovereign debt will all impact on Africa. We must therefore remainalert to these happenings and plan for how best to protect Africa’sencouraging growth.On its part, ECA places great emphasis on its collaboration withthe NPCA and its support for the NEPAD programme. This is boththrough direct assistance to NPCA internal management processesas well as for NEPAD strategic frameworks and regional developmentprogrammes. ECA provides technical support to the APRM processand has also been involved in supporting NEPAD Knowledge Managementactivities. Every week through the NEPAD Today newsletterwe are able to update thousands of subscribers on NEPAD programmeactivities.We will build on our existing Memorandum of Understanding withthe NPCA to elaborate a multi-year plan that will contain the priorityareas of work between the two institutions starting in 2011 andupdated on a rolling basis.In conclusion, I wish to welcome the keynote speakers at this meeting.Their presence is indicative of the new strategic directions of theNPCA and their contributions will no doubt enrich your deliberationshere as well as the outcomes and recommendations to be submittedto the NEPAD Heads of State and Government Orientation Meetingat its next meeting.Integrating Africa61