... Time and again, Africas potential for economic development has - TopicsExpress

... Time and again, Africas potential for economic development has been disrupted by the predatory politics of ruling elites seeking personal gain, often precipitating violence for their own ends. The problem is not so much that development has failed as that it was never really on the agenda in the first place. After decades of mismanagement and corruption, most African states have become hollowed out. They are no longer instruments capable of serving the public good. Indeed, far from being able to provide aid and protection, African governments and vampire-like politicians who run them are regarded by the population they rule as yet another burden they have to bear in the struggle for survival concludes the author. But what internal and external factors triggered these despots to behave like that is a question that needs further scrutiny. Whats rather disquieting and depressing is that better replacements are hard to find. Desmond Tutu articulated this when he pointed out that we cant assume that yesterdays oppressed will not become tomorrows oppressors. we have seen it happened all over the world, and we should not be surprised if it happens here. He also urged the african people to be on their guard against government abuse and corruption. Still making this difficult, however, most African leaders are blessed with the art of talking more and giving hope to their people, but doing less. Kofi Annan understands this clearly, and warned that Let us be careful not to mistake hope for achievement. ... An interesting yet depressing book !!!