March 9, 2023

The White-Savior Industrial Complex

“If we are going to interfere in the lives of others, a little due diligence is a minimum requirement,” Teju Cole reminds us in his recent article in the Atlantic Magazine. He argues that Western aid often fails to understand the complex issues facing African countries and instead reinforces the idea that Africa is in need of salvation from the West. He also criticizes the use of simplistic, emotionally manipulative rhetoric in Western aid campaigns and the marginalization of African voices in discussions about African issues. Cole’s piece sparked widespread debate and discussion about the role of Western aid in Africa.