Amsterdam University Press

Gordon Crawford, Christof Hartmann
Decentralisation in Africa
A Pathway out of Poverty and Conflict?

Grounded in empirically-based country case studies, this new study provides a sober assessment of what decentralisation can achieve. The current momentum for decentralisation of government in Africa and elsewhere in the developing world is unparalleled, but are the benefits claimed by its advocates being realised? Focusing on two claims in particular, this book questions whether decentralisation does offer a significant pathway out of poverty and conflict in Africa. Issues of poverty reduction are addressed in Uganda, Ghana, Malawi and Tanzania, while those of conflict management are explored in Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa, Uganda and Rwanda.

Gordon Crawford is reader in development studies at the University of Leeds. Christof Hartmann is professor of international politics and development policy at the University of Duisburg-Essen in Germany.

Reviews

This volume tackles head-on two crucial issues concerning the relationship between decentralisation and development. In an uncompromising assessment of controversial claims, it provides comprehensive evidence-based analysis and critique of this key policy prescription for Africa.

Professor Nancy Thede, Department of Political Science, Quebec University, Montreal

"This is a major contribution to the study of decentralisation in Africa as it does not stop at describing intentions, but deals with implementation successes and shortcomings. The balance sheet of intended and unintended effects of a major reform on both poverty and conflict is convincingly established on the basis of a limited number of case studies, comparative analysis and theoretical considerations. Essential reading for both academics and decision-makers in this field. "

Andreas Mehler, Institute of African Affairs, Hamburg