There's an interesting article in the FT about Dambisa Moyo, an economist who wants to scrap all of the aid programmes to Africa. Somewhat surprisingly, her views seem to be not unpopular, with at least two African leaders inviting her to talks.
It's certainly a breath of fresh air to have someone speak about "exit strategies" rather than simply demanding more handouts. The FT speaks ominously,however, of a groundswell of opposition from the aid community. This is only to be expected. There are taxfree lifestyles to be maintained among the "misericorderati", so they can certainly be expected to fight hard and dirty.
But it's only trade that offers a long-term solution to the problem of poverty in Africa.