A few years ago, I was one of those people who had a serious sense of panic about the increasing dominance, and heavy-handed business tactics, of Microsoft. I felt at the time that they were becoming too powerful and that they were in a position from which their power would only increase. It worried me.

I don’t have that same sense today. Google has, to some extent, given Microsoft some competition in key areas, and at least made it seem a little less invincible.

Meanwhile, I have increasing respect for the way in which Bill and Melinda Gates have, through their private foundation, taken a role in issues like African public health. Some have belittled his charity, saying that as the world’s richest man he could afford to do more, but from what I’ve read I think he seems to have a keen sense of where and how to help, rather than just throwing money at problems.

Microsoft has now announced that Bill Gates will be stepping back from day-to-day work in order to devote more time to his philanthropy. The transition will take place over a period of months, and Gates will still hold the title of chairman at Microsoft (he says he can’t forsee ever giving that up).

If he sticks to this, I think it’s terrific news for Africa and all of the developing world.