Letters to the editor
| Pages | 2-3 |
Page 2
I agree with Mayra Buvinic and Elizabeth King's "Smart Economics" (June 2007) that much more should be done to promote the economic power of women. Given the significance women bring to all their endeavors, they are the driving force in families and even nations. Women are also highly skilled at dialogue and at fostering development.
The third Millennium Development Goal (aimed at empowering women) is to be encouraged, but the backward idea that "women are born to do housework" must first be eradicated. Otherwise, even our best efforts will be in vain.
Agonma Esaie Student, economics and management
Benin
"Making Remittances Work for Africa" (by Sanjeev Gupta, Catherine Pattillo, and Smita Wagh, June 2007) caught my attention, not because I live in the third world and still less because of my nationality, but because it objectively describes a striking reality in developing countries.
Niger is benefiting increasingly from remittances, which have the power to transform the lives of those who receive them. Used properly, these funds can really help reduce poverty. For example, although modest in comparison with the aid provided by development partners, the remittances sent by Niger's diaspora during the 2005 food crisis made a difference to those who were suffering.
My only grievance is with money-transfer companies, whose net profits are in the millions of dollars, thanks to remittances sent by emigrants from developing countries. These companies have a moral obligation to give something back by financing investment projects in developing countries.
Hassane Moussa Alkeirou
Niger
While I greatly enjoyed Harry Broadman's "Connecting Africa and Asia" (June 2007), the author is missing an important point. Trade between the two continents is profitable provided African countries export commodities to Asia as inputs for industrial activity and consumption and, in return, import Asian manufactured products. But theirs is a one-sided partnership.
Many countries in Asia are enjoying strong economic growth, with China and India in the lead. This growth is driven by a new wealth-creating industry, a leading services sector, a modern financial system, improved...
To continue reading
Request your trial