SparklingJem: All Comments

I think this is fantastic. I understand the criticisms and yes a lot has changed in the way Africa is viewed and written about but not that much. I'm from a little country that has found a small degree of fame in the Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency series and let me tell you that is a VERY romantisized version of life in Botswana.
It's true some partnerships do span continents, like the fact that where ever you're from in Africa you get asked the same questions about pet lions, mud huts and if you know this guy who lives in Kenya. If we have to endure this 1st world ignorance (and shame how could they know. They only have easier access to information and education than the rest of the world.) then we should be allowed to poke fun at them from time to time. I believe humour is the best way to highlight social problems. We are also doing our bit to spread enlightenment to the west. http://www.stuff-about.com/2010/03/educating-west-part-1.html
So thank you Binyavanga, I really enjoyed this article.

P.S. CharleyS, this does NOT negate the work you and other NGO workers do or the reasons you do it.