My family traveled to Senegal to attend a conference on the solidarity economy. People from all over the world came to talk about establishing the vision of a new economy the benefited the masses in a more sustainable way. For me the trip was groundbreaking because of the exposure to a third-world predominately Muslim society that differed from popular media viewpoints. Senegal is probably on the better end of the spectrum in regards to stability within Africa but it still seemed stuck in between the the worlds of capitalism and imperialism. If there is ever an opportunity in your life to visit Africa, don't hesitate and go. You will be doing your self a favor.
Ripess is the organization that held the conference. http://www.ripess.net/en/default.htm