There are now over half a billion people in Asia who can be called middle-class, according to a new report by Ernst & Young.

Customers in Africa often pay ten times more than those in Europe for broadband access, the ITU says.

While oil could potentially accelerate the country's development, Liberians also remember that mismanagement of its forestry, gold and diamonds resources was one of the causes of the last war.

The rivalry between the president and former vice-president engulfed the country in violence in December, and shows little sign of abating.

Helicopters whirred overhead, masquerade dancers weaved through the crowd, police sharpshooters took up position, the red carpet unrolled and the band played on. Down the road, a giant hoarding informally launched the election campaign.

The ultimate contradiction in terms it may be, but there is a growing belief that 'fighting for peace' rather than apparently fruitless negotiations is the way to resolve some of Africa's long-standing conflicts.