Economic issues are critical to social development in the African context. The authors examine four areas: economics as a central social development issue, employment creation with particular reference to income generating projects, appropriate technology, and regional economic inter-dependence. Current patterns in the creation of income generating projects are analysed in detail so as to illustrate the central thesis that economic development is an essential part of social development but is more likely to be effective if practiced from a clearly social development orientation rather than from an exclusively economic development framework. The building of human capacities and self-reliance at both community and national level are also emphasised. The authors conclude that, although development is not mere economic growth, nevertheless the knowledge and skills needed to facilitate economic development should be acquired by everyone involved in social development.
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