The quote suggests that when people are faced with limited resources or financial constraints, they often feel compelled to accept whatever help or assistance is available, even if it does not perfectly meet their needs at the moment. This can mean taking an immediate offer of a grain store instead of waiting for or seeking out something more appropriate like a plough.
At its core, this statement highlights how poverty and scarcity can limit one's ability to make informed choices that align with long-term goals or true necessities. When survival is on the line, individuals might prioritize short-term relief over long-term stability and growth. This can lead to accepting solutions that provide immediate assistance but may not address underlying issues or contribute to sustainable change. It speaks to the broader challenges of poverty, including the psychological impact it has on decision-making processes and how it often forces people into situations where they have to make difficult compromises.
Ann Cotton is a prominent British development economist known for her extensive work in education reform across Africa. She founded Camfed (Cameroon Education), an organization that focuses on girls' education in rural areas, recognizing its importance for economic empowerment and societal change. Her insights often come from firsthand experience working with communities facing severe poverty and limited access to resources, making her observations about the nature of need and choice particularly insightful and relevant.
