The MDGs have given African governments the incentive to implement poverty reduction strategies. They have galvanised and focused the development agenda, local governments, and donor countries. However, Africa as a continent faces the substantial challenge of both high poverty levels, and political instability. This article argues that an MDG‐plus agenda for Africa needs to take account of local and regional dimensions, as well as international dimensions. In addition, African countries need to learn from other parts of the world; both other regions in the South and countries in the North. As well as promoting a ‘bottom‐up’ approach in general, we should seek and encourage greater public involvement.