The Potentiality of 'developmental States' in Africa: Botswana and Uganda Compared

The Potentiality of 'Developmental States' in Africa investigates the potential role of the state in Africa in promoting development in this era of globalisation. Using Botswana and Uganda as case studies, the volume argues that it is not the amount of state involvement in the economy that matters, but the quality. This set of original studies compares and contrasts issues that distinguish the two countries' development record and style of activity of the state in promoting development. Written by a collection of researchers drawn mainly from Botswana and Uganda, this book argues that there are some elements of the developmental state model in both countries. These elements have arguably contributed to some of the relative successes in the two states. Contextualising the case studies within the history and political economy of the respective countries, the book is a valuable addition to the on-going debate on the role, nature and character of states in Africa. A must read for students, researchers, politicians and development practitioners. Book jacket.