On international aid

In which we choose not to rant.

So today I had this conversation about "getting involved" with non-profits that do work in India. Most of them, even today, focus on aid. This is the Bono+Jeffrey Sachs model, where the coffers of wealthy nations are opened up to end poverty in poor countries. There's a debate raging about whether this model works or not.

I believe that applying the "rising tide raises all boats" philosophy makes a much bigger difference to a country's economic development than handouts. Here are a few experts on the topic:

First, Kenyan economist James Shikwanti to the G8.

Next, a Nigerian finance minister:



Lastly, George Ayittey, Ghanaian economist:



What's true for Africa is true for everywhere else. Stop sending aid, unless it's for disaster relief. Instead, invest.