The current global economic crisis resurges the debate on aid to Africa--the largest global recipient--and this comprehensive volume explores the premise, history, and foundation upon which the concept of aid is based. It considers aid's relationship to the broader development discourse in Africa, the politics and power dynamics of aid mechanisms, and how the emergence of powers such as China and India are redefining the global aid architecture. Diverse perspectives are shown from African social commentators, academics, and activists, including Demba Moussa Dembélé, Patrick Bond, Samir Amin, and Charles Mutasa.