Social and economic inequality in Eastern Africa : Ad-hoc Experts Group Meeting (AEGM 2) concept note

Abstract

The 20th ICE will focus on the theme of ‘Institutions, Decentralization and Structural Transformation in Eastern Africa’. It will examine the role of institutions in promoting growth and structural transformation in Eastern Africa. This will include a review of processes and mechanisms to ensure the formulation of shared visions, promote effective leadership, manage expectations, enshrine good governance, strengthen public participation in decision-making, and build social capital and cohesive pacts for transformational change. It will assess the relevance and effectiveness of decentralized political systems of governance as a means to building strong institutions, balancing national and local interests, enhancing social equity and national unity for development, legitimizing markets and generating a 'fair deal' for all. Incentive schemes and capacity requirements for effective decentralization will be analyzed.