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That is why it is so important to understand that the future of the environment and 

 economic prosperity are inextricably intertwined in Africa. 



HOPEFUL SIGNS OF AN ALTERNATIVE FUTURE 



Yet not all is negative in Africa. There are many examples where Africans are taking 

 control of their future by taking control of their environment. Increased economic growth, 

 improved governance, and coordinated strategic planning have been shown to go hand in 

 hand with the wiser use of enviroimiental resources. In countries as diverse as Uganda, 

 Madagascar, Mali, South Africa and Zimbabwe, major changes are taking place both at the 

 local and national levels that hold considerable promise. 



While problems differ, the recipes for environmental progress share certain traits in 

 common: 



• Throughout Africa there are experiments in turning over authority for natural 

 resources to local users through resource tenure reform and democratization, often 

 with significant results. Notable examples include efforts now underway in 

 Madagascar, Zimbabwe and the Sahel. By giving local people a stake in managing 

 their natural resources, we are beginning to see that Africans can wisely balance their 

 immediate needs with the long-term needs of their children. 



• Throughout Africa there is a rethinking of the respective roles of the public sector and 

 private citizens. South Africa, Mali and Senegal have been particularly impressive. 

 No longer is the environment simply a responsibility of government. It is the 

 responsibility of every citizen. For instance, Govenmient Forestry Agents in 



