This book investigates why massive international aid failed to stimulate economic growth in Tanzania during the 1970s and what policy shifts eventually led to the country's subsequent recovery. Sebastian Edwards, an economist with extensive experience in international development, utilizes historical economic data and policy analysis to evaluate the efficacy of foreign aid. He argues that the transition from unconditional support to a framework of conditionality and program ownership was central to the nation's economic stabilization and growth after 1996.

Experts recognize this work as a rigorous economic analysis of the failures and successes of foreign aid in post-colonial Africa. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which makes it a valuable resource for students and professionals in development economics.