Anaemic

My name is Yeah Yeah and here's one of my favorite fairy tales.

Once upon a time I was in power since 1900. A century is nothing. I am not going anywhere. A black hole named Greed swallowed my country. Delicious. Burp. 

Greed is good.

My buddies go to the bank in Land Rovers. Cruise control.

China is my best friend in the whole wide world. They've invested a cool $12 billion since 2002.

They know BIG profit when they see it, smell it, hear it, taste it, feel it and cash it.

Money in-money out is their mantra.

Here's some recent World Bank numbers to verify our stellar accomplishments.

1. Our economy expanded at an annual rate of 7.2% in 2012. Domestic consumption is up. Toilets are expensive and rare. Cell phones are cheap and plentiful.

2. Direct foreign investment last year was $1.5 billion.

2. Our per capita income is $946 a year. Thailand is $5,474 and Indonesia $3,557. 

3. Less than 14% of my people, by the people and for the people are enrolled in tertiary education. Education wastes time and money.

4. 55% of our children under five are anaemic. I don't know what that means speaking of vigor or energy. I hope it's not contagious. If it is we need another hospital filled with empty rooms to impress foreign investors.

5. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies costs my country $146 million each year.

6. Malnutrition and poor health stunts the growth of 40% of our children. 

It's a numbers game.

Robust growth is one thing. Inclusive growth is another.