Conclusion: Towards a Model of Developmental Local Governance

Abstract

This book is unapologetic about its claim that development is increasingly being associated with the ‘local’ primarily because of unevenness in the results of the myriad models and strategies that have characterized post-WW11 development efforts, and out of which is borne disenchantment with the idea of development. In consequence of these two variables, considerable adjustment in development thinking and practice is taking place. It is within this framework that we seek to initiate a conversation around the role of local government in development through critical exposition of the praxis of developmental local government and governance in different countries, as outlined in the Introduction. The fundamental question that underpins each perspective in this book pertains to the manner in which the relationship between local government and development is being structured. The analyses offer important insights into the types of institutional arrangements that might be necessary to give effect to developmental local government and governance. But there is a more fundamental purpose for putting together this collection of varied experiences of governments’ attempts to decentre development: It is to aid successful policy transfer. Therefore, an important question that arises as a result of the findings of each case study in this text is: What are the lessons for policy?