<|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|>
African countries have been struggling to catch up to western countries due to a combination of factors such as limited access to resources, weak economies, lack of education, and poor infrastructure. Many western countries have had centuries of colonialism, imperialism and investment to develop their infrastructure and capital. In comparison, many African countries are still rebuilding from the damage caused by post-independent conflicts, poverty and the disruptive effects of dictators and autocratic regimes. Additionally, due to a reliance on exports of traditional commodities, such as minerals and oil, African countries often have unstable economies and face the risk of volatile global markets due to external shocks.