Collaborative Governance and Sustainable Development in Africa in the 21st Century

Chuks C. Egugbo & Olusegun Ogunmakin

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Abstract

This paper examined the effects of collaborative governance on sustainable development in Africa in the 21st century. The level of development of Africa compared to Europe and America is low. As a result of this, attention is focused on governance issues because it is believed that with good and collaborative governance, sustainable development can be achieved in Africa. This paper is a qualitative one. Therefore, data for the paper were derived from archival and internet materials, and the analysis of the data was done using descriptive methods. The theoretical frameworks adopted in this paper included systems theory and participatory democratic theories. Ultimately, the article found that embedding collaboration within governance systems is not only a normative imperative but also a pragmatic strategy for advancing long-term sustainable development, particularly in contexts marked by diversity, limited resources, and complex socio-economic challenges. The paper recommended, among others, the strengthening of civil society organisations and the enlightenment of the citizens in their roles in governance and community development to enable them to play an active role in collaborative governance, which is a panacea for sustainable development.

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