The G8 represents the major political driver of contemporary globalisation. It is also the most powerful political force behind the multilateral institutions that are shaping global economic practice and governance. The aid, trade and investment policies and practises of G8 member nations largely shape the development possibilities of poorer countries around the world. This book's focus on Africa reflects the fact that Africa has been more exposed than any other continent to the forces of market liberalisation - primarily through structural adjustment programmes - and yet has benefited least from the presumed gains of market liberalisation.