Striving for Good Governance in Africa

This report is a synopsis of the first major continent-wide study to measure and monitor "Progress towards Good Governance in Africa," undertaken by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). The study conducted surveys and desk research in 28 project countries. The full results and analysis of the study were set to be published in the first African Governance Report in 2005.

The project identifies four positive trends on the road to creating capable states in Africa: democratic transitions; political inclusiveness; voice and accountability; and economic management. However, while the study also shows considerable progress on many fronts, it also highlights many deficits. On the basis of the research findings, the report identifies 10 priority areas for action in building capable and accountable states. These areas include:

1. strengthening the capacity of parliaments to perform their core functions
2. deepening legal and judicial reforms
3. improving public sector management
4. improving the delivery of public services
5. removing bottlenecks to private enterprise
6. tapping the potential of information and communication technologies
7. fostering credible and responsible media
8. maximising the contribution of traditional modes of governance
9. confronting the governance dimension of HIV/AIDS
10. getting partners to live up to their commitments

According to the authors, essential in all 10 areas is tapping the potential of Africa's young people. The authors also emphasise that while organisations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank have adopted similar agendas before, action on these points must be swift and effective.