According to the experts of the EU Commission which authorised 5.6 billion euros’ investments in infrastructures for the economic and social revival of Africa "over 300 million people (i.e. about 42% of the population of the continent) still have no access to drinkable water". In addition, "in most cases, telecommunications within Africa must pass through Europe or the USA, since they have no direct connections". Hence the new initiative of the 25 EU member states in support of Africa, illustrated by commissioner Louis Michel: "It is essential to improve the African infrastructure to promote economic growth and regional trade and above all to fight poverty. In addition, the trans-African networks will give a decisive contribution to regional integration, which is a driving force of development as well as a factor of political stability and good government". The EU-Africa partnership for infrastructure "is the focus of the EU strategy for Africa, approved last December by the Council of Europe and developed in coordination with the African partners, the countries concerned and the regional organisations.
