The role of institutions in the development process of African countries

Abstract

This paper examines the role of institutions in the development process of African countries. It has been shown that, whereas institutions have played a greater role in the economic development of several East Asian countries, in Africa they are weaker and ineffective because of poor enforcement of the rule of law, corruption, mismanagement, absence of strong civil society and political interference. It is argued that well‐functioning institutions can promote growth and reduce poverty in Africa by providing a conducive environment for implementation and sustainable development programmes. Therefore, African countries should endeavor to establish effective, responsive and democratic institutions that will promote accountable and transparent governance and sustainable socioeconomic development.

Citation

Kumssa, A. and Mbeche, I.M. (2004), "The role of institutions in the development process of African countries", International Journal of Social Economics, Vol. 31 No. 9, pp. 840-854. https://doi.org/10.1108/03068290410550638