I am not an economist but I hope my own view will make sense in its own little way.
I live in Africa and I think both views are correct in their own way.
Exploitation from its own people as well as the external ones have been a major cause of the challenge we face till date. To attain that standard where we can be said to be rich, there must be intervention from the government and other necessary external bodies.

And talking about people are poor because of their mentality is also true.
But I think the solution will also involve external bodies. Those who will enlighten them and free their mind from the cage it has been long locked in.