New Internationalist

At the time of independence a mood of optimism prevailed in Africa. Today there is a shadow of doubt. Famine, drought, refugees and civil war are the continent’s bitter harvest. New Internationalist explains the forces that are keeping AFrica poor.

September 1984, Issue 139

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Features

Shadows of doubt
Why does Africa stay poor? Richard Swift explains how the 'Foreign Exchange Machine' that dominates Africa's economy fits the needs of a few at the expense of the many.
The facts on making Africa poor
Women in Africa - Till death us do part
Debbie Taylor argues that sexual inequality is to blame for Africa's poverty.
Military muscle
Big budgets and political clout have made Africa's military a major force in shaping the events on the continent. Robert Luckham explains why.
In black and white
A look at the visual sterotypes that have blurred our picture of Africa.
A friend in need
Richard Hall sifts through the facts of super-power competition for the minds and resources of Africa.
The WaBenzi
Africa's new ruling class share a common status symbol and a common neglect of the rural poor. Julian Champkin explains.
Nature pleads not guilty
Are acts of God the main cause of famine in Africa? Tony Jackson and Paula Park investigate.
Yams and palms, coups and projects
A short story by Maggie Black.
You can't eat coffee
Wayne Ellwood reports from Zimbabwe on the crisis in Africa's food production.

Regulars

Readers' Letters
Update
Newsworthy stories this month, plus Taking Issue by Ashok Mitra.
Reviews
Music, film and book reviews, plus a classic revisited.
Country profile: El Salvador