Introduction

The post-colonial period of Africa is marked by two principal challenges. The first one is the question of the nature of the state. The second one is the insignificant economic weight of this continent in world economy. However, we observe since the beginning of 1990s certain revival characterized by the democratization of institutions, an economic growth and the search for a new African identity.

What is in this block?

There are 3 sections in this block:

Section 1: The nature of the post- colonial African state

Section 2: Africa: a marginalised continent

Section 3: Towards an African Renaissance?

Estimated study time

We think that you will need 7 or 8 hours to do all the activities of this block.

Learning objectives

By the end of this block, you should be able to:

• analyse the nature of the post- colonial African state;
• demonstrate how Africa is marginalised;
•  point out the positive areas where Africa is performing.

How will I assess my learning in this block?

This block contains 3 activities. They are designed to help you to evaluate your progress in the study of the contents of the block.

After having studied each section of this module, do the activities, which are proposed to you. Compare then your answers with those, which are suggested at the end of the block. If you encountered difficulties, please review the section.

If difficulties persist, it is absolutely necessary to ask for assistance from a colleague or your tutor in the centre.