Africa: Problems in the Transition to Socialism

In recent years several African countries have proclaimed their intention to break radically with prevailing neo-colonial patterns, including such ostensible alternatives as African Socialism. This book offers a succession of profound analyses of the strategies former liberation movements have pursued once in power, and the obstacles they have encountered in their attempted transitions to Socialism. Fundamental questions are raised about why these regimes - despite their illustrious records of national liberation struggle and their present clearsighted ideological commitment- have found it so difficult to transform and develop economies inherited from their colonial and capitalist pasts, and to meet the people's essential needs. The ongoing pitfalls of bureaucracy and limitations to socialist democracy are also made clear.