NAIROBI, 13 November 2008 (IRIN) - President George W. Bush is this year's recipient of the Bishop John T. Walker Distinguished Humanitarian Service Award "given each year to leaders who have made a significant commitment to Africa" by Africare, reports the Voice of America.

Africare is the oldest and largest African-American-led private and charitable organisation in the field.

"President Bush was honoured for his efforts throughout his administration to combat disease across the continent. At the same time, he has expanded US development assistance through his Millennium Challenge initiative which links aid to political and economic reforms."

Last year's award recipient was President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia. The award is named after John T. Walker, former Episcopal Bishop of Washington D.C. and Africare board member.

See also President George W. Bush's acceptance speech.

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