Edited by TrustAfrica's Bhekinkosi Moyo, the 429-page book opens with a foreword by the renowned development activist, Graça Machel and features in-depth analysis of the increasingly contentious relationships between state and non-state actors in 18 African countries.

"This is a groundbreaking collection about what lies above and below Africa's current trajectory," says Neville Gabriel, Executive Director at the Southern Africa Trust. "Rather than looking at what must be done to propel Africa along a rapid path to pro-poor development, it addresses questions about why that journey sometimes works and at other times does not".

Although many African nations saw their economies grow rapidly in the years leading up to the global financial crisis, and are now experiencing renewed growth following reforms that made it easier to do business, these gains have not translated into better living conditions or greater opportunity for most Africans. Several of the book's authors attribute this disheartening reality to a crisis of governance and a lack of accountability.

"How do we come together to build the Africa we want?", Machel asks in the foreword. "Because this book is critical of the way the public space is governed, it is likely to cause discomforts but it is essential for it forces us to look at ourselves and question our genuineness to democratisation and development".

Bhekinkosi Moyo, the book's editor and the Programme Director at TrustAfrica, calls on civil society actors to work together in advocating for democratic governance and to open up and secure more spaces for effective democratic participation.

"Relations between state and non-state actors have been changing periodically and contextually, with spaces for engagement growing limited," Moyo said. "Civil society should not be treated as political contenders or viewed with suspicion. With their history of achievements, they can make a unique and vital contribution to Africa's development".

This volume is a must read for government officials, policy makers, political leaders, business leaders, civil society activists and indeed all citizens of Africa. It is available in hardcover, softcover and electronic (PDF) editions. To buy a copy, or download free excerpts, visit http://shop.southernafricatrust.org.

TrustAfrica is an independent foundation that strives to secure the conditions for democratic governance and equitable development throughout the continent.

The Southern Africa Trust is an independent non-profit agency that supports deeper and wider regional engagement to overcome poverty in southern Africa.

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For more information, please contact:
Ms. Mpho Kgosidintsi
Tel: +27 11 318 1012

Mobile: +27 78 459 0152
Email: communications@southernafricatrust.org