This article revisits the relationship between the state and industrial development in Africa. The analysis shows the mutuality of states and markets in African industrialization, contrary to the neoliberal strategy. A disciplined activist African state that governs the market is essential for industrial development and recovery. Using empirical evidence from Botswana, we show how Botswana has induced a relatively successful industrialization project, contrary to the general trend of deindustrialization and retraction of state involvement in Africa in the 1980s and 1990s. This case study challenges the neoliberal camp's belief about SAP's efficacy in addressing the crisis in African economies. It also points to an alternative strategy, one in which the state and the market can work together to ensure development.