Financial Sustainability of Local Governments in Southern Africa

In Pursuit of Sustainable Cities and Communities

Nirmala Dorasamy, Tonderai Kapesa, Nirmala Dorasamy, Tonderai Kapesa

• Publisher: Routledge
• Year: 2024
• ISBN:
  9781040133132
• Edition: 1
• Topic: Economics
• Subtopic: Development Economics
• Index: Economics

This book delves into the critical issue of ensuring the long-term financial viability of local governments in the diverse region of Southern Africa. Across Southern Africa, cities and communities are facing a multitude of challenges, from rapid urbanization and infrastructure challenges to social inequality and environmental degradation. In this thought-provoking book, the authors explore the intricate relationship between financial sustainability and the pursuit of sustainable cities and communities through different lenses.

Drawing on extensive research and case studies from various countries in the region, this book provides a comprehensive analysis of the financial realities faced by local governments. It examines the factors influencing revenue generation, expenditure management, and fiscal governance, shedding light on the complexities of financial decision-making in the context of limited resources and pressing development needs. Furthermore, it offers practical insights and actionable recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and academics. It explores innovative approaches to revenue diversification, efficient expenditure allocation, and effective fiscal management, with the ultimate aim of fostering sustainable development, social services delivery, and environmentally sustainable infrastructure in Southern African cities and communities.

This is an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with financial sustainability in the context of urbanisation and sustainable development in greater Africa. It serves as a guide and inspiration for building financially resilient local governments that can support the aspirations and well-being of their citizens while contributing to the broader vision of sustainable cities and communities.

Table of contents

• Cover Page
• Half-Title Page
• Series Page
• Title Page
• Copyright Page
• Contents
• Contributors to the Book
• Acknowledgement
• 1 Financial Sustainability Concept in the Context of Local Governments in Africa
• 2 Governance Imperatives for Financial Sustainability of Local Governments
• 3 Public Financial Management Laws and Financial Sustainability of Local Governments
• 4 Participatory Budgeting in Municipalities: A Comparative Case of South Africa and Brazil
• 5 Oversight Bodies’ Role in Financial Sustainability in Local Governments
• 6 The Political Economy of African Local Governments and Financial Sustainability
• 7 Sustainable Debt Management for South African Municipalities
• 8 Strengthening Sources of Finance for Local Governments in Southern Africa
• 9 Innovative Financing and Financial Sustainability of Local Governments
• 10 Infrastructure Financing and Financial Sustainability of Local Governments
• 11 Sustainable Social Services Financing for Local Governments
• 12 Conclusion: The Future of Financial Sustainability in Local Governments
• Index