Structural adjustment in Africa: Engaging with the World Bank in the 1990s
Date
1992-03-16
Authors
Breslin, Edward
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Abstract
According to conventional wisdom, Western "aid fatigue" is evident in Africa. Desperately
needed resources traditionally supplied by numerous bilateral and multilateral development
institutions and Non-Government Organizations [NGOs] is currently being diverted to Eastern
Europe, the independent republics of the former Soviet Union and the Gulf region.
Additionally, billions of dollars in foreign aid are perceived to have been wasted on the
continent. Africa, whose precarious condition has long been debated, will be further
marginalised as the "new world order" forgets about the continent...This paper will explore the dynamics of, and critique, structural adjustment in Africa. In
contrast to the oversimplified indictments of the World Bank offered by many critics, to be
discussed below, it is the author's contention that the World Bank has in fact offered valuable
insight into the development constraints experienced within the African context. It is also
recognised that the World Bank will continue to play a prominent role in the future development of the continent. One can not simply wish the institution away. Africa's way
forward will therefore be to engage with this institution in a constructive manner so that the
Bank's significant financial resources may be utilised for the structural transformation of the
continent. As will be demonstrated below, this requires a re-examination of the dynamics
of structural adjustment programming, a closer examination of programmes and experiences
in specific countries, and a critique of the World Bank's present approach to development.
The paper comprises three sections. First, a brief overview of the evolution of IMF and
World Bank programme-based lending is offered. This is followed by an examination of the
nature and goals of structural adjustment and stabilisation programmes. The purpose of this
section will be to underline the important differences between these multilateral institutions.
An understanding of the different approaches which drive World Bank and IMF interventions
is critical in order to effectively critique the structural adjustment process. The final section
will illustrate how developing countries can further engage with the World Bank. By using
significant precedents from other country programmes, recipient governments may gain
important leverage against, and more effectively utilise, World Bank resources and
programmes to facilitate the structural transformation of the continent. It is hoped that such
an approach will enhance recipient governments' bargaining position, vis-a-vis the World
Bank, in the future design of programmes implemented in their country.
Description
African Studies Seminar series. Paper presented 16 March, 1992
Keywords
World Bank. Influence, World Bank. Africa