Towards an accountable Africa : unpacking challenges and opportunities to strengthen accountable governance mechanisms in Africa

Abstract

Accountable governance has been proved as essential prerequisite for social and economic growth within many countries. Introducing robust accountability mechanisms, techniques, and integrated frameworks in African governance is crucial for realising the social, economic, and political aspirations outlined in the 2063 agenda. Open access to information, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and social budget tracking, to assess public polices and tracking governmental budget expenditures, are becoming a pressing need across African Nations. Tailored accountability mechanisms, aligned with cultural and social contexts, should be piloted within the African Union, facilitated through partnerships with the European Union. This policy brief debunks key issues, opportunities, and theories that have been utilised to support the leadership style on the African Continent, by presenting different theories and mechanisms tailored to, or that could be contextualised in, the African context. The policy brief comprehensively discusses the importance of accountability and transparency mechanisms in public and private leadership which can lead to enhanced social, economic and political outcomes for Africa, when adopted by public institutions such as the African Union, and even in the private sector.