The sustainable development goals signed in 2016 marked a
new phase in global development thinking, one which is focused on ecologically and
fiscally sustainable human settlements. Few countries offer a better testing
ground for their attainment than post-apartheid South Africa. Since the coming
to power of the African National Congress, the country has undergone a policy
making revolution, driven by an urgent need to improve access to services for
the country's black majority.
A quarter century on from the fall of apartheid, Building a
Capable State asks what lessons can be learned from the South African
experience. The book assesses whether the South African government has
succeeded in improving service delivery, focusing on the vital sectors of water
and sanitation, energy, roads, public transport and housing. Emphasizing the often-overlooked
role of local government institutions and finance, the book demonstrates that
effective service delivery can have a profound impact on the social structure
of emerging economies, and must form an integral part of any future development
strategy.
A comprehensive examination of urban service delivery in the global South, Building a Capable State is essential reading for students and practitioners across the social sciences, public finance and engineering sectors.
Industry Reviews
'The authors present a rich, comprehensive but sober analysis of progress achieved by the South African public sector in the two decades after apartheid. Their view from the local level is particularly relevant, as South Africa is one of the few African countries with empowered sub-national government.'
William Cobbett, Director, Cities Alliance
'A landmark critical review drawing on a rich evidence base from both academic and practitioner perspectives. Its insights and analytical framework have relevance for other countries and cities facing the challenges of the "new urban" agenda.'
Stephen Essex, Plymouth University
'This brilliantly researched book holds lessons for the many countries dealing with rapid urbanisation and growing demands for basic infrastructure in cities.'
Julio D. Davila, University College London
'Lucid and detailed.'
Foreign Affairs
