2010 is a special year for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as we mark 10 years since the MDGs were signed, by 189 heads of states committing to reduce extreme poverty and hunger; achieve universal primary education; promote gender equality and empower women; reduce child mortality; improve maternal health; combat HIV/Aids, malaria and other diseases; ensure environmental sustainability; and develop a new global partnership for development.

In Africa, significant progress has been made in school enrolment; ensuring gender parity in school enrolment; in the treatment of diseases (especially HIV/AIDs, malaria and tuberculosis); in reducing child mortality and in expanding access by poor people to clean and safe drinking water. However, the impact is not felt by citizens because the MDGs that are off track impact negatively on the progress made so far.

With five years remaining to 2015, the set target date for achieving MDGs, there is need to demand that our governments keep their promise to achieve the MDGs and targets by prioritizing key areas including good governance and developing MDG-friendly policies and budgets.

We therefore call upon citizens to sign up to the Africa-wide petition (where possible circulate it widely) and join us to make a big noise for the MDGs on 17th - 19th September 2010 during the annual Stand Up and Take Action initiative.

Click here: http://www.oxfam.org/en/campaigns/health-education/pledge