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Fostering Institutional Management and Effectiveness Capable institutions are vital if governments are to meet the expectations of citizens and deliver on their socio-economic development mandates in a transparent, accountable manner with adequate checks and balances. Societies need competent public sectors to maintain order, collect revenues and deliver services, among other things. In many African countries, though, institutions are seriously hampered by poor management structures and the lack of skilled, motivated personnel; therefore, civil service reforms to enhance efficiency, quality, integrity, and professionalism is crucial. Building institutional capacities at the local level is critical as the trend toward decentralization and devolution of power continues. There is also a pressing need to comprehensively reform parliaments and judiciaries, whose independence and abilities to oversee the executive branch are called into question. Parliamentary commissions and strong and active committees need to be developed, and independent watchdog agencies created, to oversee public funds and monitor policies. Impartial and fair legal institutions that enforce the rule of law and protect citizen rights are a prerequisite for maintaining public trust in governance. Judicial reforms are needed that include simplifying overly cumbersome processes and restructuring terms of appointments for judicial officers. Civil society organizations, such as nongovernmental organizations, associations, academic institutions, and trade unions, give citizens a voice and expand their influence on the political process. A strong and vibrant civil society in Africa is a good counterbalance to the power of the state and a conduit for constructive, open dialogue about public policy. Capacity building of these non-state actors, as well as the media, may take the form of training and working to open channels so actors may access information more freely. In this area, DPMD focuses on:
DPMD studies underway:
Recent DPMD Publications:
Contact:
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