'Francis is a distinguished member of the new generation of African scholars in this field, and this new addition to his corpus of work does not disappoint. He has brought together a group of distinguished scholars to provide a fresh look at post-conflict peacebuilding, with a particular focus on Sierra Leone. At a time when the appetite for liberal peacebuilding is rapidly ebbing, he and his co-authors make a strong case for why - suitably reformed and rooted in local circumstances - external assistance can play a useful role in supporting the process of reconstruction after war.' Malcolm Chalmers, Research Director / Director, UK Defence Policy Studies, UK 'This book clearly delineates the successes and challenges my country experienced when I was at the helm of things, while making the transition from war to peacebuilding and development. It is essential reading for all Sierra Leonean policy-makers as well as others interested in post-war reconstruction especially in Africa.' Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, President of Sierra Leone, 1996-2007