Includes bibliographical references (p. [129]-143) and index.

Colonialism, racism and African resistance -- Instabilities, adjustm ent and renewal -- Food - insecure and vulnerable : the politics of Afr ican rural livelihoods -- Big men and little women : the politics of ge nder in Africa -- More than HIV/AIDS : the politics of health in Africa -- Conclusion : an African renaissance.

"Democracy, prosperity and self-rule, this was the vision of African independence. Across the continent, however, the 'optimism' that chara cterized the immediate post-independence period has largely faded. Mean while, ordinary Africans lurch between undemocratic, unaccountable and unresponsive governments and a decaying traditional African past. How did things go so wrong? Why has the continent lagged behind others in e conomic development despite its potential natural resources? Why are so many African states prone to conflict? And why has democracy been slow to take root in a majority of the countries? Covering everything from African economies to the role of the state, rural livelihoods to issues of gender, 'Politics in Africa' offers a fresh perspective in answerin g these questions, making the continent's problems more understandable, less wretched and even intensely hopeful. Up-to-date, concise and pro vocative, this is indispensable reading for anyone interested in Africa n politics."--P. [4] of cover.