Famine is preventable. The persistence of famine reflects political failings by African governments, western donors and international relief agencies. Can Africa avoid famine? When freedom from famine is a basic right or a political imperative, famine is prevented. Case studies demonstrate such successes but they are not often acknowledged or repeated. Who is responsible for the failures? African governments, western donors and international relief agencies all contribute to the problem. What is the role of international relief agencies? Relief has helped to fuel war andundermine democratic accountability. What is the way forward? Progress lies in bringing the fight against famine into democratic politics, and calling to account those guilty of creating famine. Published in association with the International African Institute North America: Indiana U Press