The African Reaction to Foreign Initiatives in Population Programs

Abstract

This paper takes a hard look at foreign initiatives in the field of population in Africa. Some important characteristics of the contemporary African scene are outlined, including the great diversity of attitudes regarding population control, and high infant mortality rates. A culturally insensitive approach to family planning characterizes most foreign initiatives in this area and has led to serious backlashes. The growing number of organizations active in this field and the increasing availability of funds for family planning contrasted with the lack of money for other concerns, which many Africans perceive as more urgent, has led recipients to question Western motives. The author underscores African irritation with so-called “experts” who know little or nothing about Africa, yet attempt to organize family planning programs. A new restiveness prevails among the younger generation of African administrators and intellectuals who demand that family planning be approached in the global context of development issues.