from the frank exploration of the gains, setbacks and dilemmas of state reconstruction in an Africa buffeted by so many calamities."
- Richard Joseph, Director, Program of African Studies, Northwestern University
'This book makes a significant contribution to the debate on state reconstruction in Africa. Written by seasoned scholars of African Studies, this compilation contains a highly refreshing, rigorous and informative analysis of the failure of the postcolonial state to carry out its fundamental functions, which include the maximization of the collective well-being of its citizens. This collection differs significantly from previous efforts in that it not only identifies the reasons behind Africa's high levels of poverty and deprivation, as well as its continued marginalization in global affairs, but it also provides possible solutions. The contributing authors make a compelling case for democratic institutional reforms to found a state built on public sovereignty to replace the anachronistic, repressive, exploitative and insensitive state inherited from the European imperialist powers.'
- John Mukum Mbaku, Willard L. Eccles Professor of Economics, Weber State University, and author of Culture and Customs of Cameroon (2005)