As someone who has worked in Africa, Thilo in my mind is not too far off the mark. Aid workers tend to come into these situations with a world view remarkably similar to the imperialists that came before them. That is to say they believe Africans are absolutely incapable of helping themselves and come with the intention of "saving lives"

Some people change their minds, most do not. But the real problem is the way help is FUNDED. Some aid programs (especially microfinance and Fair Trade) are really helping, but these programs are funded on campaigns of guilt. It's counterproductive because Africans are exposed to this media, so how can you encourage someone to be ambitious and spread this image of Africa as a hopeless place that needs a Western savior at the same time?