The numbers never lie

So Charles Taylor has left Liberia, finally, and the warring factions have signed a peace deal meant to bring stability to the country, thanks in large part to a small but welcome (by the locals) American presence.

The Liberian situation is tragic on so many levels, one of which is that it was once one of the most stable African countries. But under former president Samuel Doe, who ruled from 1980-97, GDP per head fell by an astounding 76% overall, from over $800 to a low of well under $50, according to this article.

I've seen all kinds of pictures and reports from Liberia, most far more emotional than these dry economic figures. But this captures perhaps most starkly the devestation there, and what it must be like for average Liberians trying to live on 24% (or so) of their 1980 incomes.
- posted by Anonymous @ 10:38 AM