NEWLY released UK government files reveal that LiveAid campaigner Bob Geldof played a crucial role in pressuring former Prime Minister Tony Blair to spearhead a major overhaul of international development aid for Africa. The documents, now in the National Archives, unveil Geldof’s sharp critique of African leadership and his vision for a UK-led transformation of aid strategy.
Geldof’s scathing take on African leadership
Geldof, a musician and prominent anti-poverty advocate, strongly advised Blair against sharing leadership of the proposed Commission for Africa with an African co-chair, describing African leaders as ‘very weak’ and largely unworthy of trust. He urged Blair to personally champion the initiative, framing the UK’s presidency of the G8 in 2005 as a ‘perfect time’ to unveil a comprehensive plan for Africa’s future.
In correspondence with Blair, Geldof argued that enabling Africans to create livelihoods at home was vital to preventing large-scale migration to Europe, which he warned could cause ‘massive social upheaval.’
An ‘age-defining’ vision for Africa
Geldof called for a holistic and groundbreaking approach, writing that the commission’s outcome should be an ‘age-defining document’ rather than a collection of fragmented solutions. He emphasised Blair’s direct involvement, insisting, ‘This needs to be a direct commission from you personally – your vision, your authority, your weight.’
The urgency of the initiative was clear, as Geldof stressed the commission needed to deliver its work before the July 2005 G8 Summit at Gleneagles.
Behind-the-scenes tensions in Downing Street
While Blair supported the idea, internal Downing Street memos show some officials were wary. Senior development adviser Liz Lloyd raised concerns about Geldof’s insistence on independence for the commission, noting that Blair’s involvement required the government to have final editorial control.
The question of African leadership was particularly contentious. While Geldof opposed an African co-chair, Lloyd acknowledged the need for ‘prominent African involvement’ and recommended Blair secure the backing of South African President Thabo Mbeki.
Balancing ambition with political reality
Blair, aware of the challenges, insisted any recommendations from the commission must be credible and achievable. He tasked then Chancellor Gordon Brown with handling the sensitive issue of financing, cautioning against proposals that could alienate G8 partners.
‘Mission accomplished,’ but criticism remains
The eventual agreement at Gleneagles, Scotland, to double aid and extend debt relief was hailed by Geldof as ‘mission accomplished.’ However, some anti-poverty activists criticised the plan, arguing it didn’t go far enough and accused Geldof of aligning too closely with government agendas.
Legacy of the Commission for Africa
The Commission for Africa became a landmark in international development policy, spotlighting Africa’s needs on a global stage. While its outcomes remain debated, the initiative underscored the potential of coordinated global efforts to address systemic challenges in Africa.
Geldof’s behind-the-scenes influence, revealed in these newly released files, highlights the complex interplay of advocacy, diplomacy, and leadership in shaping international aid policies.
