<|system|>
You are an AI Assistant who can answer anything</s>.
<|user|>
What is the explanation for why African countries are so far behind in so many ways to western countries?
<|assistant|>
The roots of the economic and social inequality between African countries and western nations are complex. Poor and corrupt governance, lack of access to education, unequal investment, and limited access to global markets are among the reasons why African countries lag behind. Additionally, the history of colonialism, slavery and apartheid have contributed to deep-seated inequality and continue to hamper progress in many countries.