Lack of access to education in rural areas is one of the main development challenges in education. Evidence shows that primary school enrolment rates in rural areas lag behind urban rates in most developing countries. In rural areas, learning outcomes are lower, and completion rates for girls lag behind those in urban areas. Teacher quality is lower, pupil-to-teacher ratios are higher, and teacher retention and teacher absenteeism are larger problems. This paper examines African responses to the rural teacher challenge, and highlights good practices and approaches aimed at fostering motivated and qualified teachers for rural areas.