In recent years, African countries have generally been on a steady path towards achievement of universal primary education and empowerment of women. Significant progress has also been made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, using methods such as awareness campaigns, and promotion and use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), which have curbed numbers of new infections and AIDS-related deaths.However, several targets have still not been met. African countries should focus on Goal 1 (eradicate extreme poverty and hunger), in order to address the ever-increasing global food and fuel prices.more effort should be made to eradicate malaria and tuberculosis. Goals 4, 5 and 6 depend on adequate health systems, access to health services, resource allocation and levels of household income.With less than five years remaining to the target date of 2015, this assessment is of utmost importance as it will help countries identify the targets that require concerted efforts for achievement of the MDGs.