Urban Institute Projects in Sub-Saharan Africa

Although promoting economic development and improving governance are global challenges, the potential benefits from economic growth and improved governance are arguably greater in Sub-Saharan Africa than in virtually any other region in the world.

While many African countries face similar challenges and obstacles to economic development and public sector governance, resolving these challenges will require a clear understanding of the specific historical, political, institutional, and administrative context in each country. The Urban Institute’s philosophy is to carefully analyze the exact nature of the policy challenges that are being faced before working together with its governments counterparts to implement the correct policy response. In doing so, UI integrates its assistance fully within the host government’s institutional structures in order to ensure that key technical skills are transferred to our counterparts and to ensure the sustainability of UI’s contributions.

In supporting public policy reforms throughout Africa, IDG is able to bring to bear its experience in Sub-Saharan Africa as well as its global experience on the economic challenges facing Africa. Although the region’s challenges are diverse, in many countries, decentralization reforms and the development of stronger, more effective local governments are seen as an important part of the solution in improving public service delivery, supporting poverty reduction and achieving governance reform in Sub-Saharan Africa. Current and recent UI efforts in the Sub-Saharan Africa region included support to local governance in Zimbabwe (2001-2005); the deepening of decentralization and enhancing the financial transparency and accountability in Ethiopia (2005-2008); and supporting the Land Administration Authority for Lesotho (2008).

Click here for a complete list of our current and recent projects in Sub-Saharan Africa, or select a specific country within the region from the drop-down menu below:

Contact Jamie Boex or Devanne Brookins for more information about UI’s project portfolio in Sub-Saharan Africa.