Some major factors contributing to this state of affairs in developing countries are a history of colonization, lower levels of financial resources, low levels of confidence in the capabilities of people in developing countries, successive generations of politicians who have not shown any motivation to entertain and implement new development initiatives.

Lila Dhar Adhikari Development cooperation can sometimes be less productive in less developed countries due to various factors. Let me explain in simple terms:

In less developed countries, there are often challenges related to infrastructure, education, healthcare, and governance. These challenges can make it harder for development cooperation efforts to have a significant impact. For example, if a country lacks basic infrastructure like roads or electricity, it becomes difficult to implement and sustain development projects.

Another factor is the capacity of the country to effectively use the resources provided through development cooperation. This includes having skilled professionals, transparent governance systems, and the ability to manage and allocate funds efficiently. Without these capacities in place, it can be challenging to maximize the benefits of development cooperation.

Additionally, social and cultural factors can also influence the effectiveness of development cooperation. Each country has its unique context, and understanding the local culture, customs, and needs is crucial for successful cooperation. Sometimes, there may be a disconnect between the priorities of the cooperating parties and the actual needs of the local communities.

To address these challenges, development cooperation efforts often focus on building the capacity of the country, promoting good governance, and involving local communities in the decision-making process. It's a complex process that requires collaboration, long-term commitment, and adaptability to the specific context of each country.

I hope this helps shed some light on why development cooperation can be less productive in less developed countries.

The relevant question should be: Why had development cooperation been productive in East and South East Asian countries? These countries had graduated from ODA dependency years ago whareas Subsaharan countries have continued to rely heavily on ODA without positive outcome. Part on this answer is in my paper: (4) (PDF) Assessing the Developmental Role of Foreign Aid in Developing Countries: A Special reference to the Role of Japan’s Aid in Far East Asia (researchgate.net).

But above all, the ultimate goal in Subsahara African countries is SURVIVAL (poverty alleviation) against ECONOMIC PROSPERITY in Asian developing countries. Policy measures, programs and projects in the SSA countries reflect this Goal. There is no surprise that development cooperation is less productive there. I think that SSA countries shoud set more ambitious goal and put priority on economic infrastructures (not basic human needs), productive investment and trade. The major player should be the government, not the local community (the poor).