Overview

Accountability and transparency are major pillars in the architecture of good governance. African countries continue to build on the governance gains that they have achieved since the early 1990s. Good, ethical governance is the key driver of a capable developmental state, and generates sustainable development without compromising the results. Countries with high levels of corruption, or which lack effective rule of law or accountability in government are more susceptible to conflict and social unrest that than other developing countries. Accountability requires supply chain management public officials to account for, report on, explain and justify activities, and accept responsibility for financial expenditure outcomes.

According to the African Development Bank, good governance should be built on a foundation of (I) effective states, (ii) mobilized civil societies, and (iii) an efficient private sector. The key elements of good governance, are accountability, transparency, combating corruption, citizen participation, and an enabling legal/judicial framework. In order to deliver good governance in the public sector, both governing bodies and individuals working for entities must act in the public interest at all times, consistent with the requirements of legislation and government policies, avoiding self-interest and, if necessary, act against a perceived organizational interest. Acting in the public interest implies a wider benefit to society, which should result in positive outcomes for service users and other stakeholders.