WASHINGTON, June 6, 2005 — New World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz says the world may be at an extraordinary moment in history to turn Africa into a continent of hope.

Wolfowitz's comments were made in a television media interview for the South African Broadcasting Corporation - and come on the eve of a planned media conference in Washington to announce details of his forthcoming trip to Africa.

In the interview, the new World Bank President stressed Africa was the first priority for the Bank. "Africa needs the Bank in a unique way and I think the Bank has a unique role to play in Africa," Wolfowitz says. "I think this may be an extraordinary moment in history where Africa can become a continent of hope and the Bank can play a role in that, so in terms of substantive priorities, it's number one."

Wolfowitz says he's hoping the July G8 summit of the world's richest nations in Gleneagles Scotland will lead to a commitment of increased development resources for Africa.

But in his broadcast interview, the new World Bank President also stresses aid is only one factor in turning Africa into "a continent of hope."

Wolfowitz says one reason why he believes now is a "moment of opportunity" is because many African leaders he's spoken to recognize that "responsibility starts at home."

He says he's impressed by the fact many of them seem determined to learn from past mistakes.