Is Africa the most underrated continent or is it rightly chastised?

Look at other countries in the same developmental stage in history that have gained independence before you judge. I'm not disagreeing I just think it's a bit more than just trivial generalisations.

I really want a United States of Africa

The quality of life in these countries has dropped quite dramatically.

In many places the countries were better as colonies perhaps because they had more powerful states to prop up and support their institutions and the rule of law (which is severely lacking in Africa).

Protectionism on the West's part is certainly not helping, though.

The problem with globalisation today is that it isn't globalisation.

I really want a United States of Africa

Hmm, this sounds interesting. Elaborate...

Billions has been pumped into Africa from the World Bank and other sources, why has it had practically no effect?

Whereas business (not charity) investments in Asia have created huge wealth and development in terms of prospects and infrastructure.

That's a statement not an argument, care to elaborate?

That's a statement not an argument, care to elaborate?

I think he is trying to add to what I said, you create welath and oppurtunity through investment and not aid.

Simple, Americans and extreme enviromentalists have denied the African dream, which is to develop. They have denied Electricty, fuel, tap water and thier excuse is "global warming". That Africa can not develop due to the impact it will have on the environment. But the funny thing is, America wants Africa to use solar panels etc for electricty. Now, look at the irony, one of the worlds poorest country using the most expensive technology for basic needs.

Ahh its all too complicated.

Billions has been pumped into Africa from the World Bank and other sources, why has it had practically no effect?

I apologise if anyone has already posted something like this, but here goes. By the way, I am speaking as an African:

Colonisation started with trade, correct? Yes, the colonisers took advantage of the land's people and eventually their resources, but to some extent, the leaders of the time weren't exactly helpful in stopping them until it was too late. Think, perhaps, of the African leaders who happily traded slaves for second-rate weaponry.

It's down to two things, I think: the effects of colonialism, and corruption.

I really want a United States of Africa

africa's quite a big place...maybe it has a few 3rd world countries here n there, but probably has some of the best places on earth.

either way, kenya owns africa its the coolest, period lol

I asked a question, hoping someone could answer it. That's pretty much it.

I apologise if anyone has already posted something like this, but here goes. By the way, I am speaking as an African:

Colonisation started with trade, correct? Yes, the colonisers took advantage of the land's people and eventually their resources, but to some extent, the leaders of the time weren't exactly helpful in stopping them until it was too late. Think, perhaps, of the African leaders who happily traded slaves for second-rate weaponry.

It's down to two things, I think: the effects of colonialism, and corruption.

Many countries in Africa are politically unstable. That is not to take away from those that are, but even in more stable countries, political corruption reigns. I know Africa isn't the only continent in which political corruption is rife, but I'm sure we can agree that in others, the governments cover their tracks a little better. Another problem is this almost 'culture' of breaking out into violence every time there is a dispute. So long as that continues, I don't think Africa will rise to the same potential as many 'first world' countries.

If the people on top continue to let other countries leech Africa's natural resources for their own personal gain, your 'average' African will never see Africa becoming 'first world'.