Botswana's Success. Published in Globe and Mail, 27 Nov 2012, A14

Africa’s greatest success story is Botswana – land-locked, 70 per cent desert and, at independence in 1966, one of the continent’s poorest countries. Its government refused World Bank advice and the quick fix of massive investment loans and took a gradualist approach to development, building on what little strength it had – its people
and their cattle.

When diamonds and copper were discovered, it did not sell off these resources for an infusion of riches but partnered with international firms to develop them gradually. It reinvested the royalties in education and health. It regulated the banks, making credit available to ordinary citizens to build homes and create economic opportunities. The results: Per capita income rose from $70 to more than $13,000, cattle herds tripled and the country has prospered. This is what intelligent, honest and pragmatic government has achieved.
Burris Devanney, Letter to the Editor