ICTs for effective decentralization : a pilot study in selected woredas (districts) in Ethiopia

Abstract

Recognizing the shortcomings of a centralized form of public administration, the government of Ethiopia has embarked on an ambitious plan of decentralization that accords an important role to woredas (districts) in the planning and decision-making processes. Within the framework of the Agriculture Development led Industrialization, the government has laid a decentralization and empowerment scheme at woreda level. The decentralization is aimed at providing opportunities for implementation of projects and programs at community level and improving the impact of different interventions. The woredas are expected to be active in the provision of basic infrastructures such as setting up and administering schools, health facilities, roads, drinking water supply, agricultural development, etc.