Heading Home - for the final time

Today is my last day in the African service of the BBC. I have some butterflies in my belly as the day's end nears.

I've been here for the best part of 12 years. I've worked with some tremendously clever and big-hearted folk. I've travelled to some amazing, awe-inspiring places in the name of my job. And I've learnt so much about a complex and beautiful continent.

But mostly it's the people.

To everyone who taught me stuff, to everyone who showed me friendship and to everyone who put up with my moods and shortcomings. Thank you.

Let's drink a cup and then I'll head home.