The Right to Development in Africa

The Right to Development in Africa by Carol Chi Ngang argues that the lack of an operational model to steer development processes towards the highest attainable standard of living for Africans is the main setback to development in the region. He proposes a shift in development thinking from dependence on assistance to the right to development governance, based on decolonial and capability theories.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 415 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2022
Publisher: Haymarket Books

In her groundbreaking work, "The Right to Development in Africa," Carol Chi Ngang delves into a comprehensive conceptual analysis of the human right to development, offering a decolonial critique of the notion that development cooperation is a necessary mechanism for its realization. Ngang's argumentation highlights that the setbacks to development in Africa are not solely attributed to the absence of development assistance but rather stem from the lack of an operational model that can guide the processes of development towards achieving the highest attainable standard of living for the people of Africa. Drawing upon decolonial and capability theories, Ngang proposes a transformative shift in development thinking, moving away from a dependence on development assistance towards an alternative model tailored specifically to the African context. This alternative model, as Ngang defines it, is the right to development governance.

Ngang's analysis begins by examining the historical roots of development cooperation in Africa, highlighting its colonial origins and the perpetuation of power imbalances and dependence. She argues that the traditional approach to development cooperation, which often prioritizes Western interests and models, has failed to address the unique challenges and realities faced by African countries. Instead, Ngang advocates for a more equitable and sustainable approach that recognizes the diverse needs and aspirations of African peoples.

To achieve this, Ngang proposes the right to development governance as a framework for promoting development in Africa. This right encompasses a range of principles and practices, including the right to participation, the right to resources, the right to sustainable development, and the right to a healthy environment. Ngang argues that by asserting these rights, African countries can take control of their development processes and build resilient and sustainable societies that meet the needs of their citizens.

One of the key aspects of the right to development governance is the emphasis on local ownership and participation. Ngang recognizes that development is not a top-down process that can be imposed from outside but rather a bottom-up approach that involves the active engagement of local communities, organizations, and governments. She argues that by empowering these stakeholders and promoting their participation in decision-making processes, African countries can ensure that development initiatives are tailored to their specific needs and priorities.

Another important aspect of the right to development governance is the recognition of the role of the state in promoting development. Ngang argues that the state has a critical responsibility to provide the necessary infrastructure, resources, and policies that support sustainable development. However, she also emphasizes the need for the state to be accountable and transparent in its actions, ensuring that development initiatives benefit the people and promote social justice.

In addition to the right to development governance, Ngang also explores the role of international cooperation and aid in promoting development in Africa. She argues that international cooperation can play a valuable role in providing technical expertise, financial resources, and humanitarian assistance. However, she also stresses the need for international cooperation to be aligned with African priorities and to be based on mutual respect and partnership.

Ngang's work on the right to development governance is a powerful and thought-provoking analysis that offers a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing African countries. Her work challenges the traditional approach to development cooperation and advocates for a more equitable and sustainable approach that recognizes the diverse needs and aspirations of African peoples. By asserting the right to development governance, African countries can build resilient and sustainable societies that meet the needs of their citizens and contribute to the global effort to promote human development.

In conclusion, Carol Chi Ngang's work on the right to development governance is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of development studies. Her work offers a comprehensive conceptual analysis of the human right to development, offering a decolonial critique of the notion that development cooperation is a necessary mechanism for its realization. By proposing the right to development governance as a framework for promoting development in Africa, Ngang advocates for a more equitable and sustainable approach that recognizes the diverse needs and aspirations of African peoples. Her work challenges the traditional approach to development cooperation and offers a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing African countries. Through asserting the right to development governance, African countries can build resilient and sustainable societies that meet the needs of their citizens and contribute to the global effort to promote human development.

Weight: 612g
Dimension: 154 x 230 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642597998