African Renaissance

Fantu Cheru attempts to shed new light on the topic of economic development in Africa. He roots his wide-ranging arguments firmly in the actual realities of what is going on in Africa --the practical lessons to be learned from both mistakes made and the initiatives which have born positive fruit. He argues for a middle way that goes beyond simple state-led versus market-driven approaches to Africa's development.

Cheru attempts to shed new light on the topic of economic development in Africa, looking at the practical lessons to be learned from both mistakes made and the initiatives which have born positive fruit.

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)

Fantu Cheru is Professor at the School of International Service, The American University, Washington D.C.