Before the Spring Reception, Professor Paul Collier spoke on the subject of his bestselling book The Bottom Billion – what to do about the poorest countries of the world, most of them in Africa. Professor Collier is the founder Director of the Centre for the Study of African Economies at Oxford University. He is a former Head of the Research Department of the World Bank and an adviser to numerous governments and international organisations. His interest in Malawi goes back to his time as an undergraduate.
Retiring after 12 years as Chairman, Bob Dewar was given Honorary Life Membership in recognition of his service. Simon Broadbent was elected in his place, with Barbara Blatch as Vice-Chairman.
Angela Watson resigned from the Committee and Roger Topping elected.
The current Officers and Committee are listed in About FOMA.
The accounts for the year ending 30 June 2008 were approved and are available online here.
An illustrated talk by photographer Martin Beck-Burridge on Malawi and the work there of Sue Ryder Care.
Martin combines a distinguished career as an academic with his passion for photography.
His visit to Malawi in 2006 to photograph people associated with Sue Ryder Care resulted in a book Liberating Lives.
This event was organized in partnership with Sue Ryder Care on the occasion of their exhibition “Art Liberating Lives” from 11-18 December.