A lot of the Africans I know have said it's nothing like what's portrayed in the media. Some of them have even told me that their homes in Africa are bigger than their 5 and 6 bedroom homes here in the States. It's definitely a lot more developed than what Western Civilization gives it credit for.
The reason why the media shows the poor side of Africa is to tap into the emotional realm of a person, to get Americas to see the poverty there, and get them to open up their wallets and donate. Let's be honest here, who would donate to a "Feed The Children" campaign where the kids are eating caviar in their silk gowns?