Decentralization - an essential pillar of institutional reform - is of critical importance in developing countries, particularly in regard to democratization, effective development, and good governance. Uganda, since 1986 and the start of decentralization measures under Yoweri Museveni and the National Resistance Movement, has represented one of the most serious commitments in Sub-Saharan Africa. With the benefit of extensive fieldwork, Fumihiko Saito demonstrates how conflict resolution, information dissemination, and encouragement of the many and varied stakeholders to form partnerships are critical to successfully bringing services "closer to the people.
Decentralization and Development Partnerships: Lessons from Uganda
goes beyond theory to compare academic assumptions to the reality of decentralization implementation in modern Uganda. Although the process is by no means free of difficulties, Saito concludes that a "win-win" outcome is a real possibility.
This book provides the kind of on-the-ground look at the process and results of decentralization that we have been missing in the debates over "decentralization" and in efforts to plan for more effective meeting of people's needs through a process of devolved responsibility and financing, especially in Africa.
Norman Uphoff, Director, Cornell International Institute for Food, Agriculture and Development
Cornell University, U.S.A.
