Professor Signé's book earns top honor on "Best Books of 2013" list
by Michelle Saport |
After reviewing countless internationally published books on Africa in 2013, Touki Montreal's distinguished judges have selected and ranked UAA Political Science Professor Landry Signé's new book as the best book of 2013 for the essays category. Professor Signé outperformed other world-leading Africanist scholars such as Achille Mbembe (2006 Bill Venter/Altron Literary Award) and Léonora Miano (2006 Prix Goncourt des Lycéens; Prix Femina 2013).
The book, entitled Le NEPAD et les institutions financières internationales au 21e siècle en Afrique (English translation: The New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) and International Financial Institutions in the Twenty-First Century), was released in December 2013 by leading French publisher Editions L'Harmattan. An English edition is currently in progress, thanks to support from a UAA Faculty Development Grant.
In his book, Professor Signé proposes a renewed explanation and assessment of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), which he calls "the most ambitious continental development initiative in the 21st century." Created in 2001, NEPAD aims to eradicate poverty; contribute to sustainable economic growth and development; and integrate Africa in globalization. Signé explains NEPAD's evolution and evaluates its most strategic programs related to political and economic governance, agriculture, infrastructure and regional integration.
"I am very honored by this recognition," said Signé. "I would like to thank the College of Arts and Sciences, Dean John Stalvey, Associate Dean John Petraitis and Department of Political Science Director James Muller who offered unique working conditions allowing me to timely finalize this project. I would also like to thank the UAA Faculty Grants and Leaves Committee and Provost Elisha Baker for awarding the Faculty Development Grant to complete the English edition."
Congratulations, Professor Signé!