Africa and the lead role the United Nations has assumed in the international assistance efforts provide an important opportunity for this body to demonstrate its ability to serve the world community. It also serves as a good reminder of the great value and potential of multilateral co-operation. 67. But the emergency problems are far from being resolved and the longer-term problems remain without the major international effort required. The World Bank has been able to achieve its target of $1.1 billion for its Special Facility for sub-Saharan Africa. But the target itself, influenced by the unpropitious aid environment was set at a very modest level in relation to needs, and not all the funds are additional or represent multilateral provision. African Governments are themselves making a tremendous effort. 68. Domestic policy reform is obviously essential, and external aid must be oriented towards long-term rehabilitation and development if the present emergency is not to become permanent. The World Bank's Special Facility has great potential importance in this regard. However, it does not make up for the cut in IDA funds, which has severely set back the financing possibilities for poorer countries and has resulted in a decline in the Bank's spending in Africa. At the same time, replenishment of IFAD now takes place at a level representing a cut by one half in funds available for its overall support of agricultural development. The majority of the programmes initiated by IMF in Africa are inoperative, and repayments on earlier advances are likely to exceed new advances in the near future. Developing countries in Africa already show a combined export surplus. The international financing system has not been serving poorer countries well. It is true that finance alone will not solve the problems of African countries, but, as the World Bank has persuasively shown, enormous investments will be necessary there over a 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the international assistance efforts and financing possibilities for African countries, highlighting the importance of multilateral cooperation and the challenges faced by developing countries. It also touches on the need for long-term rehabilitation and development, and the impact of cuts in funding on the World Bank's and IFAD's activities in Africa. This suggests that the category should be related to economic development and international cooperation.

**Category**
Economic development, Humanitarian aid and relief