POVERTY
Social enterprise sector is missing link in Africa wealth-creation chain
Governing parties lack political will, ideas and competence to use the state intelligently to foster development, writes William Gumede
Wealth creation in Africa has been stunted because countries have focused too much on the state to create new businesses, foster development and industrialise the economy. Sadly, poor Africans may have to come to terms with using development vehicles other than the state, which generally failed in the postindependence period, captured by corrupt interests or lacking competency. State-led development demands high levels of capacity to co-ordinate, integrate and implement complex policies, strategies and partnerships. Such capacity requires not only political will, but pragmatism — not ideological rigidity — and a public service employing the best talent available. African governing parties have invariably lacked the political will, ideas and competent people to use the state effectively and intelligently to foster development. The missing link in Africa is the social enterprise sector, which does not involve the state or foreign companies, but centres on social, community and nongove...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.