Policy dilemmas and prospects towards meeting the millenium development goals (MDGs) in Africa

Abstract

The study provides a background for the review of policies and actions adopted by African states and governments towards meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). It begins with conceptualising the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as a philosophy, a framework and a development implementation plan with the global consensus outlook for achieving them. The article profoundly deviates from the current debate on whether African countries would meet the MDGs; rather it seeks to develop a conceptual framework which may be useful to linking these expected goals to policies and actions of development. The article attempts to assess the MDGs and targets with a view to pointing out some policy outcomes as they affect Africa. However, some methodological steps are recommended towards achieving better policy outcomes at country levels in efforts to meet the MDGs in Africa.