A proposed institutional framework for successful rural development in less developed areas of Southern Africa∗

The research for this and a previous paper (Bembridge, 1987) was originally commissioned by the Private Sector Council on Urbanisation and sponsored by the Urban Foundation

Abstract

Whatever aspects of institutional change are important for successful rural development, political power will inevitably be a determining issue. A strong national planning and development organisation to facilitate co‐ordination between government departments, parastatal and other organisations is essential. Coupled with this is the need for a national policy for action, with supporting services and adequate financial support. Suggestions have been put forward for decentralised, co‐ordinated and effective administrative organisations at village, district and regional level, with particular emphasis laid on village‐level participation in rural development programmes.

There should be an autonomous institution for the promotion of input supplies and marketing, consistent government financing, rural infrastructure and rural service centres, all of which are essential for successful rural development. It is important that the activities of the private sector be co‐ordinated at various levels as part of the national rural development effort. A politically acceptable land tenure code with appropriate legislative and judicial support needs to be built in to a rural development strategy.

It is essential that there be appropriate co‐ordination of research and extension through proper institutional mechanisms, so that it becomes an integral part of rural development planning.

Notes

The research for this and a previous paper (Bembridge, 1987) was originally commissioned by the Private Sector Council on Urbanisation and sponsored by the Urban Foundation

Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, and Head, Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, University of Fort Hare.