Obama win would make a difference to Africa, says meeting

• Having American president with a family in Africa will affect US policy toward Africa on Aids epidemic, says Congressman.
• Congressman: Africom “the latest attempt to re-colonise Africa.”
• Senator Edward Kennedy, offers rousing tribute to Barack Obama

“The work begins anew. The hope rises again and the dream lives on,” Kennedy said, echoing his famous 1980 convention speech after losing to Jimmy Carter. At that time he said: “The dream shall never die.”

Kennedy, who endorsed Obama earlier this year at a pivotal moment in the Illinois senator’s presidential nominating duel with Hillary Clinton, was diagnosed on May 17 with a malignant brain tumor called a glioma, which usually kills within three years.

But after a day of speculation about whether he would feel like speaking to the convention, Kennedy addressed the convention forcefully.

“It is so wonderful to be here, and nothing is going to keep me away from this special gathering tonight,” said Kennedy.