CSAE Conference 2008: Economic Development in Africa

The CSAE conference brought together over 200 conference delegates from 26 countries and spanning 5 continents for three days of intensive discussions of ‘Economic Development in Africa’. A total of 50 sessions were hosted, covering themes from growth, finance and economic policy to education, land, conflict and corruption. A World Bank policy workshop was held on the first morning, followed by a panel discussion entitled, ‘What should we research next on growth in Africa?’ Benno Ndulu was the keynote speaker for the welcoming address and presented key insights regarding ‘The challenges facing growth in Africa’. Paul Collier gave a keynote address following on from themes in The Bottom Billion, highlighting five practical policy strategies for developed countries to effectively assist in Africa’s growth. The final session was a panel debate on ‘Studying Elections in Africa: prospects and problems’.