Dead Aid: Why Aid Is Not Working and How There Is a Better Way for Africa
Dambisa Moyo. Farrar Straus Giroux, $24 (188pp) ISBN 978-0-374-13956-8
In this important analysis of the past fifty years of international (largely American) aid to Africa, economist and former World Bank consultant Moyo, a native of Zambia, prescribes a tough dose of medicine: stopping the tide of money that, however well-intentioned, only promotes corruption in government and dependence in citizens. With a global perspective and on-the-ground details, Moyo reveals that aid is often diverted to the coffers of cruel despotisms, and occasionally conflicts outright with the interests of citizens-free mosquito nets, for instance, killing the market for the native who sells them. In its place, Moyo advocates a smarter, though admittedly more difficult, policy of investment that has already worked to grow the economies of poor countries like Argentina and Brazil. Moyo writes with a general audience in mind, and doesn't hesitate to slow down and explain the intricacies of, say, the bond market. This is a brief, accessible look at the goals and reasons behind anti-aid advocates, with a hopeful outlook and a respectful attitude for the well-being and good faith of all involved.
Details
Reviewed on: 03/16/2009
Genre: Nonfiction
Other - 208 pages - 978-1-4299-5425-9
Paperback - 208 pages - 978-0-374-53212-3
Paperback - 188 pages - 978-0-14-103118-7
Paperback - 188 pages - 978-1-84614-006-8