24 FEBRUARY 2005

Two of Europe's favourite princesses have being doing their best to bring a little hope to the people of Africa. Belgium's Princess Mathilde was continuing her tour of Mali in the west of the continent this week, while The Netherlands' Crown Princess Maxima was meeting local women in Uganda.

Both women seemed to be thoroughly enjoying their visits, though they weren't there solely to have fun. A svelte-looking Mathilde, who was pictured enjoying a ride on a traditional "pirogue" boat, was in Mali to assess how best to help its beleaguered economy.

She also paid a visit to a hospital in N'Gomi, where she chatted with women and children about the difficulties they face in their day-to-day lives. Education, health and women's affairs are being given top priority by the Belgian government in its efforts to help the country.

Maxima was meanwhile enjoying the company of local people as she did her bit to promote the International Year of Microcredit. The Netherlands' future queen, who is well-known for her work with the United Nations, met up with some of the artisans and entrepreneurs who have already received a helping hand to pull themselves out of poverty.