Motivations for OECD aid to sub-Saharan Africa in the post Cold War era: Realist and liberal theories in comparative perspective

This cross-national survey examines the motivations behind the allocation of foreign aid by the key members of the OECD to sub-Saharan Africa in the post-Cold War era from the theoretical perspectives of Realism and Liberalism. The study employs a time series regression method of analysis to probe this subject. In addition to a broad evaluation of the post-Cold War pattern of bilateral aid allocation to sub-Saharan Africa, I present a detailed study of the nature and patterns of aid from France, Japan, Norway and the United States to the sub-continent. I also explore opportunities for building a stronger, mutually beneficial partnership between aid donors and sub-Saharan African states on issues of development. In particular, I examine some of the reasons for the reduction in the volume of aid to the region in recent years. I then tender some policy relevant suggestions for halting this decline.