Call for entries for 2006 Diageo Africa Business Reporting Awards

Says Dr Nick Blazquez, MD of Diageo Africa, "Negative perceptions of Africa and a shortfall in reliable information on the continent's business environment are constraining Africa's ability to attract investment. These awards are a practical contribution to redressing that situation. I would like to encourage all interested parties to enter and help us to raise the profile of business in Africa.

"Africa is currently experiencing its best economic performance in many years and flows of foreign direct investment to the continent are increasing. But they are still small - less than 3% of the global total and only 11% of the total going to developing countries - and more needs to be done to tell the positive stories coming from the continent."

Winners of the six awards - for Best Published Feature, Best Television Feature, Best Radio Feature, Best Website, Best Publication and Best Journalist - will be announced at a gala ceremony in London on 29 June 2006. The prize in each category is a bronze statue and a cheque for £500.

For more information and full details of how to enter, go to www.diageoafricabusinessreportingawards.com

Diageo, one of the world's leading premium drinks company, established the awards in 2004 to recognise and reward excellence in coverage of Africa's business environment.