“Neo-colonial economic exploitation was the most significant challenge to post-independence African states.” Discuss with reference to two African states.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement with regard to two post-independence African states. Candidates may offer equal coverage of both states, or they may emphasize their discussion of one over the other; however, both states will be a feature of the response. A comparative approach may or may not be used. Candidates may refer to colonial-era economic policies that focused on production and export of cash crops and minerals and import of manufactured goods; political interference by former colonial powers and others in order to dictate terms of trade; interference by global organisations such as the World Bank and IMF through structural adjustment policies. While other relevant factors, for example illiteracy and disease may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.