Abstract Book of the 4th World Conference on Business, Management, and Economics
Year: 2025
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Britain’s Financial Support for International Development in Africa
Lovatiana Raveloarison
ABSTRACT:
This research focuses on the UK’s financial support for international development in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a particular focus on investments in education, health, and employment. Despite the historical significance of British aid, there has been little comprehensive research into its impact on human development, which constitutes a major research gap. The main objective is to evaluate the extent to which UK aid policies strengthen human capacity and promote inclusive growth in Africa. The methodology combines a conceptual framework based on official and strategic documents from the Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), as well as quantitative data from the World Bank and the OECD. Case studies are also conducted in five recipient countries in Africa: Togo, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya and Madagascar. The challenges and prospects for British development aid in times of austerity are also highlighted. The results suggest that UK investments have led to significant advances in access to primary education, a reduction in infant mortality, and job creation linked to vocational training programmes. However, the sustainability of these gains is limited by dependence on external aid and persistent inequalities between urban and rural areas. Practical implications include strengthening local partnerships, directing funding towards more autonomous programmes, and increasing the transparency of evaluation mechanisms. In conclusion, while British support remains essential, a more coherent and participatory approach is required to drive lasting change in African societies through investment in human capital.
Keywords: Uk Aid; Employment; Health; Human Capital; Soft Power