For a contemporary observer of African affairs, the year 1960 is a convenient date of departure. A large number of new nations appeared on the scene with a bang. The economist, political scientist, and sociologist have hardly begun to evaluate and examine the consequences of this transformation. A significant fact has often escaped attention. Each independent country as it emerged from the darkness of colonialism began by accepting economic planning as an instrument of policy. As the development plans were being drafted, almost simultaneously new investment laws were debated and enacted.