New UK Minister for Africa to Develop, Deepen Relations with Continent

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The newly appointed United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa, Rory Stewart, has expressed his readiness to partner Africans to develop and deepen the existing relations between Africa and Europe, noting that Africa has great potential that can be harnessed for the development of the entire world.

Stewart’s revelation was contained in a statement issued by the UK High Commission in Abuja wednesday.

The statement signed by Press and Public Affairs Officer, Joe Abuku, noted that Stewart was excited about the existing relationship between Africa and UK and expressed willingness to take it to a greater heights.
“I am so excited to have the role of Minister for Africa in both the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Department for International Development.

“Africa is an extraordinary continent with so much potential: An incredible number of young people, some of the most stunning landscapes in the world and extraordinary new businesses.
“There is also a great historical relationship between Africa, Europe and the world, which needs to be developed and deepened,” he said.

The minister said he was looking forward to learning from Africans, to listening to the experiences of people on the ground and building relationships.

“If we can get them right, it should flourish over 30, 40, 50 years with mutual respect and learning between Africa and the United Kingdom,” he said.

Stewart took over from Tobias Ellwood who was the Minister for Africa prior to the dissolution of parliament last May.

Stewart, also doubles as Minister for Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).