Politics in Africa - by Nana Poku & Anna Mdee (Paperback)

About the Book

"Democracy, prosperity and self-rule, this was the vision of African independence. Across the continent, however, the 'optimism' that characterized the immediate post-independence period has largely faded. Meanwhile, ordinary Africans lurch between undemocratic, unaccountable and unresponsive governments and a decaying traditional African past. How did things go so wrong? Why has the continent lagged behind others in economic development despite its potential natural resources? Why are so many African states prone to conflict? And why has democracy been slow to take root in a majority of the countries? Covering everything from African economies to the role of the state, rural livelihoods to issues of gender, 'Politics in Africa' offers a fresh perspective in answering these questions, making the continent's problems more understandable, less wretched and even intensely hopeful. Up-to-date, concise and provocative, this is indispensable reading for anyone interested in African politics."--P. [4] of cover.

Book Synopsis

Democracy, prosperity and self-rule, this was the vision of African independence. Across the continent, however, the 'optimism' that characterized the immediate post-independence period has largely faded. Meanwhile, ordinary Africans lurch between undemocratic, unaccountable and unresponsive governments and a decaying traditional African past.

How did things go so wrong? Why has the continent lagged behind others in economic development despite its potential natural resources? Why are so many African states prone to conflict? And why has democracy been slow to take root in a majority of the countries? Covering everything from African economies to the role of the state, rural livelihoods to issues of gender, 'Politics in Africa' offers a fresh perspective in answering these questions, making the continent's problems more understandable, less wretched and even intensely hopeful.

Up-to-date, concise and provocative, this is indispensable reading for anyone interested in African politics.

Review Quotes

"Deserves a prominent place on reading lists in politics, development studies, modern history and interdisciplinary African studies, where it will provide a lucid and challenging introduction to some central debates." --Justin Pearce, International Affairs Journal

"'I highly recommend this book as an insightful and well referenced commentary on key issues in our modern African society, and its colonial and post-Independence history. It will be of great value to Africans and non-Africans alike, with an interest in how politics shapes our lives." --Kenneth Kaunda, former President of Zambia

"A superb introduction to some of the most critical political challenges facing Africa today. It offers a clear and coherent discussion of the complexities of, and linkages between, Africa's past and present. An excellent addition to our understanding of African society." --Pascoal Mocumbi, former Prime Minister of Mozambique

"A lucid introduction to the political dilemmas facing contemporary Africa." --Patrick Chabal, King's College London

"There is a surprising amount packed into the pages of this short book. Weighing colonial legacies in the scale against post-colonial exigencies, the authors manage to serve up an account that is fresh, provocative and eminently readable. It provides an excellent starting point for anyone in search of a better understanding of contemporary Africa." --Paul Nugent, University of Edinburgh

About the Author

Nana K. Poku is Executive Director and Professor of Health Economics at HEARD.

Anna Mdee is a research associate at the Overseas Development Institute (ODI).
Nana K. Poku is Executive Director and Professor of Health Economics at HEARD.

Anna Mdee is a research associate at the Overseas Development Institute (ODI).