The discussion on the role of the state and non-state actors in the improvement of livelihoods in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where economic and social development is slowest, has been characterized by a disjoint between theory and empirical research. This volume sets out to revisit this question by examining the place of the two types of actors in the development process, and the increasing influence of public-private partnerships in livelihood outcomes. The book combines theoretical reflections and empirical studies on a wide variety of initiatives in several domains that seek to improve wellbeing and livelihoods, with a focus on the Sub-Saharan country of Cameroon. The book will provide insights on an area which has been both neglected with the rise of neo-liberalism, and also revived by the recent introduction of the global development goals.