Ambiguous Order: Military Forces in African States

by Herbert M. Howe

Howe (African politics, School of Foreign Service, Georgetown U.) examines options for increasing state security in contemporary Africa. First, he presents a case study of ECOMOG in Liberia and Sierra Leone, examining the possibilities for regional military cooperation. He also analyzes the infamous Executive Outcome's operations in Angola and Sierra Leone, assessing the role of mercenaries' long-term contribution to national security. Finally, he assesses the developing Africa Crisis Response Initiative, a continental and rapidly- deployable force intended to promote peace in Africa. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

316 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Al · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book on how the rise of militarization has contributed to continuing destabilization in sub-Saharan Africa. Clearly demonstrates the need for a robust AFRICOM presence, as well as military aid to nations such as Mali, as a way to create order from chaos.