How's this for a comment on how bad governance is on the African continent? The multi-million dollar prize created by a wealthy African-born telecommunications executive to reward recently retired African leaders who embody enlightened leadership won't be given this year since the Mo Ibrahim Foundation which awards the prize found no one worthy of it.

African continent.
iStockphoto.com

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation made the announcement yesterday. I missed the initial announcement but thought this was such a telling commentary on the state of self-government on the African continent that it should be mentioned in the blog today.

An excerpt from its press release:

"The Mo Ibrahim Foundation is committed to supporting great African leadership that will improve the economic and social prospects of the people of Africa. The Foundation's focus is the promotion of good governance in Africa and the recognition of excellence in African leadership.

The Prize Committee welcomed the progress made on governance in some African countries while noting with concern recent setbacks in other countries.

This year the Prize Committee has considered some credible candidates. However, after in-depth review, the Prize Committee could not select a winner."