Reversed fortunes in the south : a comparison of the role of fdi in industrial development in kenya and malaysia

Abstract

This book examines the causes of observed reversal of fortunes between Sub-Saharan Africa and South East Asia in the last 50 years. Specifically, it compares Kenya and Malaysia which 50 years ago were arguably at similar levels of development. Today, Malaysia is an industrialised country while Kenya has stagnated economically. It finds itself in an awkward position, where it has to learn from Malaysia’s industrial experience as it aspires to industrialise by the year 2030. The book also examines how foreign direct investment can be attracted and used to spur industrial development and provides important lessons for developing countries