Can the Expansion of Social Protection bring about Social Transformation in African Countries? The Case of Zambia

Abstract

The expansion of social protection in Africa has been accompanied by growing expectation of transformative results, addressing structural inequalities. Political analysts identify entrenched inequalities in African states, characterised by neopatrimonialism and clientelism. The achievement of transformative results is therefore contingent on a profound change in the relationships of power, which may be overlooked in the discourse on social protection. This article proposes a framework for understanding transformative change in this context. It examines experience of social protection in Zambia in terms of these characteristics, discussing how national actors and international development have supported progress towards transformative social protection. It identifies outstanding steps, and reflects on wider lessons.