The Implications of Scarcity for Governance in Africa

Abstract

Despite the variety in African state forms, the observer is struck by a prevailing paradox- that is, the modern African state is overcentralized and consumes extensive resources, yet is "soft" and lacks the ability to carry out its ambitious programs. What explains this apparent paradox? Policy analysis, which assumes relatively strong and autonomous state institutions, must adapt to Third World conditions if it is to promote governability under conditions of scarcity and state incoherence. Hence a number of policy options are explored to increase the political resources the state can bring to bear-devolution of central authority, expanded private organizations, parastatals, and local governing bodies, and increased reliance on market mechanisms. To be sure, powerful political forces stand in the way of reducing state tasks; yet despite the risks involved, we see real opportunities for African states, each within its own unique context, to accomplish more while doing less.