This book provides a broad and insightful guide to the economic, social, and environmental concerns seen within Africa. It highlights the central economic challenges faced by African countries and outlines ways in which long-term sustainable development in Africa can be achieved. A particular focus in given to issues of poverty, inequality, and unemployment and how poor infrastructure, limited healthcare and education, and environmental deterioration are exacerbating these issues. By looking at the limited effectiveness of traditional development initiatives, a new framework for economic development is presented that focuses on community ownership and long-term sustainability and which acknowledges the history of colonisation, economic exploitation, and political instability that has held Africa back in the past.

This book takes hope from countries within the Global South that have moved towards sustainable development and sets out ways in which other countries can follow them. It will be relevant to students, researchers, and policymakers interested in development and environmental economics.

David Mhlanga is a Researcher and Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg

Mufaro Dzingirai is a Lecturer at the Midlands State University.