The role of governance networks in economic development: lessons from Zambia.

Abstract

This paper discusses the role of governance networks in economic development in Zambia. A qualitative design was used to conduct the research. Both documentary and non-documentary data were collected. Documentary data were collected from documents focusing on governance, networks and economic development. Non-documentary data were obtained from a sample of 19 key informants comprising five managers of public institutions and 14 union leaders. The findings reveal that the network model attempts to resolve problems facing the public sector by emphasising collaboration among stakeholders and allowing the government to rely on the private sector to provide public infrastructure and services. The use of this model is driven by the ideas of inclusiveness and resource pooling. This includes transferring the responsibilities of policy formulation and implementation from the state to non-state actors. However, governance networks can be captured by private sector actors and their international agents thereby promoting skewed economic development. This enables capitalists to accumulate capital while excluding poor people from accessing basic services. Therefore, governance networks need to be transformed to protect the masses against capitalist exploitation. The transformation should focus on empowering the citizens, holding the government accountable and ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably.