Is globalization good for Africa? Pádraig Carmody explores the evolving nature and impact of globalization throughout the continent, as China, the US, and other economic powers exert their influence.

Drawing especially on the cases of Chad, Sudan, and Zambia, Carmody considers whether the resource curse that has for so long plagued Africa can become a blessing. He also evaluates the impact of the information technology revolution and the recent global economic slowdown. In the context of carefully articulated historical dynamics, he provocatively assesses the new role of Africa in the global economy.

Pádraig Carmody is lecturer in geography at Trinity College, Dublin. He is author of Neoliberalism, Civil Society and Security in Africa.