In the early 1970s, the Congo shone like a beacon of black pride at
the very heart of Africa. Its leader, Mobutu Sese Seko began
reshaping the country in the image of his forefathers (beginning
with its name). After years of brutal colonialism and coups, Mobutu
brought a semblance of stability to the country. The west, who knew
a friendly tyrant when they saw one, backed him to the hilt, and to
handed out cash. The story of Mobutu is not merely one of
despotism, but of the wilful ignorance of Western powers and
international moneylenders. It is they, says the author, who are
ultimately responsible for leaving an entire country - one of
Africa's largest and richest - drained of its wealth, and owing
billions. The 'Heart of Darkness' comparisons Wrong is so keen to
foster seem a bit laboured. In fact the book perpetuates as many
myths as it dispels. A better comparison - one that Wrong herself
makes in the closing pages - is with 'Animal Farm.' Mobutu has
gone, she says, but Mobutism lives on, in the form of Laurent
Kabila -'the creatures outside looked from pig to man and from man
to pig...but already it was impossible to say which was which.'
(Kirkus UK)
'A brilliant account of Africa’s most extraordinary dictator . . . This book will become a classic.' Economist
A sparkling account of the rise and fall of Mobutu Sese Seko, the charismatic dictator who plundered his country’s wealth and indulged a passion for pink champagne, gold jewellery and chartered Concordes. Absurdity, anarchy and corruption run riot in Michela Wrong’s fascinating dissection of the Congo; a story of grim comedy amidst the apocalypse and a celebration of the sheer indestructibility of the human spirit.
General
Is the information for this product incomplete, wrong or inappropriate?
Let us know about it.
Does this product have an incorrect or missing image?
Send us a new image.
Is this product missing categories?
Add more categories.
Review This Product
No reviews yet - be the first to create one!
Welcome to Loot.co.za!
Sign in / Register |Wishlists & Gift Vouchers |Help | Advanced search
(4)
(2)
