For ten years now the Prime Minister has been one of the biggest figure in international politics, and when he resigns it will leave the world's leaders wondering what they have to expect from his successor. Mr Blair has decided to spend his last weeks in office solidifying the nations relationship with Africa by visiting some of the nations where his influence has been greatest. It is unquestionable that Mr Blair's legacy in Africa is impressive, but this latest trip is really to assure foreign leaders that the Labour policy on African affairs will remain constant. In Sierra Leone Labour and Mr Blair are especially popular. Quick thinking led to the maintenance of the legitimate government and the defeat of rebels. The Prime Minister is to be made an honorary paramount chief of Sierra Leone in recognition of his humanitarian work there. 
"However ferocious the challenges are in this part of Africa it's better to intervene and try to make a difference than stay out and try to cope with the consequences at a later time."
Though there are a score of books about the unusually high level of conflict we have seen during the Labour Governments term of office, it is undeniable that some great things have been achieved. Though the papers seem to talk of nothing but Iraq, British records in other areas of the globe have been nothing but good. The African media has remained generally positive towards the UK during the Blair years, although Zimbabwe of course is resolutely critical. One paper said: "As Sierra Leone takes a new path towards socio-economic recovery today, this nation will always live to remember the significant contribution of a British prime minister, who had a unique vision to better the lives of the forgotten people of Africa".
Now, as the Prime Minister prepares to stand down, we must wait to see if Gordon Brown upholds the legacy of Labour foreign policy in Africa. Initial signs look good, but we shall really see how the future will look after the upcoming G8 conference. After his retirement, one of Mr Blair's roles will undoubtedly be that of international peace-broker. Ironic, say the LibDems, but I think his record proves that when he fills the role, he will do it well.
"However ferocious the challenges are in this part of Africa it's better to intervene and try to make a difference than stay out and try to cope with the consequences at a later time."
Though there are a score of books about the unusually high level of conflict we have seen during the Labour Governments term of office, it is undeniable that some great things have been achieved. Though the papers seem to talk of nothing but Iraq, British records in other areas of the globe have been nothing but good. The African media has remained generally positive towards the UK during the Blair years, although Zimbabwe of course is resolutely critical. One paper said: "As Sierra Leone takes a new path towards socio-economic recovery today, this nation will always live to remember the significant contribution of a British prime minister, who had a unique vision to better the lives of the forgotten people of Africa".
Now, as the Prime Minister prepares to stand down, we must wait to see if Gordon Brown upholds the legacy of Labour foreign policy in Africa. Initial signs look good, but we shall really see how the future will look after the upcoming G8 conference. After his retirement, one of Mr Blair's roles will undoubtedly be that of international peace-broker. Ironic, say the LibDems, but I think his record proves that when he fills the role, he will do it well.
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