Overview
"The author of Silent Revolution in Africa turns his attention here to the main problem African countries now face: how to escape from the trap of marginalization, deepening impoverishment and state disintegration in the new era of globalization?" Professor Fantu Cheru refuses to accept the easy rhetoric of the left or the equally misguided oversimplifications of neoliberal prescriptions. Instead he bases his wide-ranging arguments in the actual realities of what is going on in Africa - the practical lessons to be learned from both mistakes made and the initiatives that have borne positive fruit. He argues for a middle way that goes beyond the simple state-led versus market-driven approaches to Africa's development. This requires international financial institutions to cease their heavyhanded interventions and leave room for countries to decide their own development paths. It also requires African countries to renew democracy and improve governance, invest in education, revitalize agriculture, strengthen regional economic integration and prevent yet more deadly conflicts. This means a recognition that there are no simple solutions. It also means carrying out concrete strategies, combining public management and private sector entrepreneurship, and a new generation committed to a new kind of politics.Editorials
Booknews
Arguing that globalization is an irreversible process and that the possibility of developing a counterhegemonic strategy to global neoliberalism is unthinkable, Cheru (School of International Service, The American U., Washington DC) suggests that globalization can best be navigated by African countries if they utilize the best of both state and market development approaches. Calling his recommended plan "a guided embrace of globalization," he explores how his mixed approach would work in the areas of renewing democracy, investing in education, revitalizing agricultural production, strengthening regional cooperation, and strengthening rural-urban interface. It is only after these hurdles are overcome that Africans can reap the benefits of globalization. A commitment to democracy and self- determination is necessary to resist the worst impacts of neoliberal globalization. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)From the Publisher
"...a welcome addition to the discussion on development in Africa...a good book for development studies scholars."--Valentine James, Journal of Sustainable Development
“A timely contribution to the debate on Africa's future in the age of globalization. In this penetrating analysis... this book is a must read for African policymakers, civil society leaders, and donor organizations.” —Carlos Lopes, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Bureau of Development Policy, United Nations Development Program
“Despite gloomy predictions about Africa's future...Cheru argues that globalization can offer great opportunity for the continent, but only if African leaders are prepared to manage it carefully and with greater concern for empowering the poor.” —K.Y Amoako, Executive Secretary and Assistant Secretary, General United Nations Economic Commission for Africa
“Dr. Cheru...provide[s] an insightful evaluation of Africa's political and economic points of origin, as well as its desired Renaissance destination. Most importantly, [Cheru] offers clear directions for fellow travellers joining the fight against global apartheid!” —Salih Booker, Executive Director, Africa Action