This document analyzes illicit financial flows from African countries from 1970 to 2008. It estimates total illicit outflows from Africa over this period to be $854 billion using economic models. However, it notes that data limitations likely cause underestimation. When adjustments are made to account for uncaptured components, total illicit flows from Africa over this period are estimated to be closer to $1.8 trillion. The large scale illicit capital leaving Africa has significantly hampered development efforts by reducing funds available for investment and social spending. Addressing illicit financial flows requires cooperation between African countries and Western nations where much of the funds are absorbed.