99pages #47. USAID w/ Ned McMahon, author of Wisdom & The Baobab Tree
Mar 13, 2025
Ned McMahon, a former diplomat and professor specializing in African Affairs, shares insights from his extensive career and his novel, 'Wisdom and the Baobab Tree.' He discusses the complexities of USAID, focusing on its roles in security, commerce, and morality. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic communication in international development and critiques misconceptions about aid efficiency. Ned's transition from public service to fiction illustrates the emotional depth of storytelling, merging personal experiences with broader cultural narratives.
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Childhood Spark
- Ned McMahon's interest in international affairs began with a childhood trip to England at age nine.
- He was fascinated by cultural differences, sparking a lifelong interest in global affairs.
Writing Inspiration
- Ned McMahon wrote "Wisdom and the Baobab Tree" to share his experiences in international development.
- The main character, Adam Edwards, is a flawed individual working on a USAID project in a fictional African country.
Why Fiction?
- Ned McMahon chose fiction to explore the emotional and creative aspects of international development work.
- A novel allowed him to speculate and explore themes he couldn't in his nonfiction work.