Continental policy targeting and the Nepadisation process : issues, trends and options

14 November 2007

This paper explores the use of public administration approaches to targeting policy for continental development. The paper argues that it is vitally important for participation in the re-vitalization of the governance and leadership imperatives in both the African Union (AU) and the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). Although the paper supports the idea of the founding principles of the NEPAD concept within the framework of the AU, it further contends that the need for a systematic and continental public administrative policy making process must be in the forefront of decision making. The paper further argues that at the same time, sound leadership and governance infrastructures must be put in place to attract viable economic co-operation between African states. This is paramount towards the development of the African continent. At the same time, the paper circumvents to argue that regional imperatives towards development must be evident, as it must serve as the fundamental role in the welfare of the people of Africa. It is within this framework that targeted public policies towards development are paramount; and this must be supported by regional projects within the confines of the African Union.