I was impressed with the responsible and realistic attitude displayed by Dr Kaberuka on behalf of his government. The government that he advises came to power in 1986, taking on responsibility for massive debt. While doing their best to reschedule debts so that the country can survive economically, they have written into their constitution criteria for responsible future borrowing, as well as putting in place measures aimed at minimising the potential for corruption.

There was a graciousness in the presentation of Dr Kaberuka, but one could sense the despair of a man with the job of advising a government which has so few choices economically. In order to satisfy World Bank repayments emphasis has been placed on ensuring a "growing economy" but this has not effectively addressed the issues of rural poverty and a crumbling social infrastructure. The government has set priorities for spending to achieve its stated aim of "providing the best possible quality of life for its citizens," only to be forced to change these objectives in order to meet World Bank criteria. Debt is indeed a new form of colonialism - the loan companies are in a position of great power, dictating how governments should use their resources in order to maintain the demanded rate of repayment.

Dr Kaberuka's visit to Canberra was a boost to the "Jubilee 2000" campaign. Visits to AusAID and Parliament House enabled discussion with some key, officials. Perhaps the last word should go to the Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast at which he was a guest. The host, in thanking him, commented how important it is to realise that justice and mercy demand much more than individualised responses such as child sponsorship. It would be good for us to support this campaign for global justice and mercy.