Michael Lofchie

Michael Lofchie is a Professor of Political Science at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), serving as Associate Dean for Social Science. He previously chaired the Department of Political Science and directed UCLA’s James S. Coleman African Studies Center (1978-1989).

His educational background:

• U.C. Berkeley, 1964

A leading specialist in comparative politics and African studies, Professor Lofchie focuses on political economy, economic reform dynamics, and structural adjustment in Africa. His research critically examines agricultural policy, urban bias, and postcolonial development trajectories, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. His influential work provides foundational insights into famine mechanisms and development challenges across the continent.

His scholarly contributions center on two major monographs analyzing decades of African political economy. These works establish enduring frameworks for understanding how policy choices shape development outcomes, with particular emphasis on Tanzania's economic trajectory and comparative agricultural performance in East Africa.

Professor Lofchie has translated academic expertise into policy impact through consulting engagements with U.S.A.I.D. and the World Bank. His teaching encompasses undergraduate and graduate comparative government courses alongside specialized seminars on Africa's political economy, reflecting deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of scholars in African political studies.