By Andrew Walker BBC economics correspondent

Africa is supposed to be a priority for the leading rich nations. At last year's G8 summit a new Action Plan for Africa was set out, and Africa's problems have featured in G8 discussions for many years. But what progress has really been made? A small group of African leaders made the long journey to the Canadian Rocky mountains to be present for the birth of the G8's Africa Action Plan.

They said it was worthwhile, but at the time many observers thought the G8 plan very short on new specific commitments.

It is a long term vision for a radical transformation of the continent, covering security, health, education and economic development, so it is very early to be making judgements about achievements.

Even so, there are some areas where development lobby groups don't hold out much hope.

Keeping promises?

Trade is a major concern.

The Action Plan offered the prospect of major cuts in rich country agricultural subsidies that undermine African farmers - by making it harder for them to compete at home or in export markets in Europe and the United States.

Many lobby groups are very sceptical about whether rich country governments are prepared to confront their own farmers.

Those groups generally welcomed promises of more aid.

But they will take time to implement.

Taking stock

On African debt problems the G8 was the driving force behind an initiative launched in the mid 1990s, which has made clear progress.

Five African countries have completed the process and another 17 are receiving interim debt relief.

But critics say the G8 should be pressing for more relief for more countries more quickly.

The group will take stock for themselves soon enough.

Africa is due to feature prominently again at this year's summit.