The year 2008 seemed to see much attention being given to birthdays, and it was gratifying that at least someof the focus was on the youthful Mandela Rhodes Foundation, celebrating the fifth anniversary of its operations.  In a period of great interest in South African and African political developments, and no doubt one of great challenges, it is wonderful to see some institutions making such extraordinary progress and doing such immeasurable good for the future of our continent.

The Mandela Rhodes Foundation continues to identify and nurture, in ever greater numbers, the next generations of excellent, ethical African leaders across all areas of society. I much enjoy being introduced to the successive cohorts of Mandela Rhodes Scholars. This year was special in this regard, as I had the pleasure of receiving the 2008 Scholars at my offices in Johannesburg at the beginning of the year, seeing all the Scholars from 2005–2008 together at a celebratory event in Bishopscourt in August, and being introduced to the ‘Class of 2009’ at an end-of-year function with them in Cape Town in December. These groups of Scholars are unfailingly impressive, and their diversity and potential is remarkable.

Although it is young, The Mandela Rhodes Foundation is solidly established and institutionalised, giving me confidence that it will continue to do its important work far into the future. There can be few roles more important or more constructive than playing midwife to new generations of leaders, so badly needed in a period of world history that cries out for exceptional leadership. 

The donors, both long-established and newly in partnership with us, are honoured elsewhere in this Yearbook.  You have my personal gratitude for your continued generosity and commitment to the work being done in my name.