Heroes and Charlatans of the Savannah

This book attempts to track the crinkum-crankum path that has been the hallmark of development in most Sub-Saharan countries since the Independence decade (1957-1967). The biggest misconception about Africa has always been treating the second largest land mass on the globe as one entity, with a monolithic culture. It couldn't be further from the truth. The author tries to steer the reader through an amalgam of issues that contributed to the diverging and meandering paths. The pioneers of African independence were every bit as brave and patriotic as those in other regions of the world. But they faced enormous odds against them while trying to wrest power from formidable oppressors whose armies they couldn't match. Despite many obstacles, they prevailed, and laid the course generations of their successors have followed since. Now, having secured these republics (if they can keep them), the bigger fight is to ensure that their people are well-fed, clothed, schooled, and kept in good health. This entails inclusive governance that guarantees that the lives of citizens are valued, resources are not squandered on oppressive instruments, or pilfered outside for the benefit of those who monopolize power. With vast natural and human resources yet to be harnessed, the African continent can push itself to a level that lifts its people out of nauseating poverty, allowing its leaders to proudly share a seat on the high table of development.