Rethinking and Unthinking Development: Perspectives on Inequality and Poverty in South Africa and Zimbabwe

This book examines how Africa can adapt Western development models while rejecting exploitative practices and discourses. It explores factors such as regional politics, corruption, and socio-economic and cultural barriers impacting development in Southern Africa.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 10 February 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Development has remained an elusive goal in Africa, despite numerous efforts and initiatives. In response to the pressing need to reexamine and challenge prevailing development paradigms in the region, this volume offers valuable insights through theoretical contributions and case studies focused on Southern Africa's former white settler states, namely South Africa and Zimbabwe. The authors aim to explore how Africa can adapt Western development models to suit its unique political, economic, social, and cultural contexts while rejecting practices and discourses that perpetuate exploitative capitalist and colonial tendencies.

Beyond the enduring legacies of colonialism, the volume delves into other factors that hinder development in the region. These include regional politics, corruption, inadequate policies on empowerment and indigenization, and socio-economic and cultural barriers. By examining these complex factors, the authors aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing Africa and offer potential solutions for sustainable and inclusive growth.

The volume's chapters are organized into three sections. The first section explores the historical and political context of development in Southern Africa, including the legacies of colonialism, the struggle for independence, and the post-colonial transition. The second section examines the economic dimensions of development, including issues such as poverty, inequality, unemployment, and economic diversification. The third section focuses on social and cultural factors that impact development, including education, gender, religion, and cultural heritage.

Through a multidisciplinary approach, the authors draw on a range of theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence to analyze the development challenges and opportunities in Southern Africa. They highlight the need for a holistic and integrated approach that addresses the interconnectedness of different sectors and promotes sustainable development practices.

This volume is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners interested in understanding development in Africa. It provides a critical analysis of the past and present development experiences in the region and offers insights into how Africa can chart a new course towards sustainable and inclusive growth. By challenging prevailing development paradigms and promoting a more equitable and sustainable approach, this volume contributes to the ongoing efforts to address the complex challenges facing the African continent.

ISBN-13: 9781800736450