The decade of 1980s was one of crisis for Africa. Neither African governments nor development agencies made a significant impact on the quality of life of rural people. The enormous range of contexts in Africa — social, economic, political, cultural, and environmental — limits the value of the search for universal solutions to endemic problems. First published in 1992, Development from Within examines an alternative framework, arguing for flexibility and specificity. The authors use case studies to explore the complex social relationships of power — from the household to the state. They argue for the knowledge and skill of African people and illustrate the diverse means by which men and women in rural Africa struggle to survive.

This book will be a beneficial read for students and researchers of African studies, development studies, economics, and sociology.