ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the nature of the developmental agenda mapped in Nepad and, in the process, considers what, if anything is ‘new’ about the positions being advanced by its leading proponents. In particular, the role of South Africa’s President Thabo Mbeki is examined, although not exclusively, as his voice has been among the most forceful in promoting the initiative around the globe. The chapter contends that Nepad has been well received by donors, in particular, because the message communicated fits into the hegemonic neoliberal discourse promoted by international financial institutions (IFIs). Further, unlike earlier regional development initiatives, Nepad avoids blaming particular macroeconomic policies or global trade structures for Africa’s marginalisation. Instead it avoids a structural analysis by simply passing off the blame on ‘globalisation’. In addition, the leading African elites promoting the Nepad have gained the North’s seal of approval regarding their outward commitment to liberal democracy and market economics, and are held up
as models by which the rest of the continent can and should emulate. This chapter analyses why such a formulation of Africa’s developmental future is problematic.3
