The environment in which public administration functions in sub-Saharan Africa

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the challenging environment in which public administration is being implemented in developing countries. Governments and public administrations in developing countries play an important role in responding to the new responsibilities emerging from the quest for sustained economic growth and sustainable development. Among other things governments have to develop essential infrastructure, reduce socio-economic inequality, combat poverty, support social and private sector development and protect the environment. Governments also have the responsibility to strengthen public administrations in order to ensure effective service delivery. The environment in which public administration functions in sub-Saharan African countries is complex and affected by challenges such as crippling national debt, corruption in governments, human rights violations, poverty, conflict, HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases, and famine to name but a few. It is expected of governments to perform and conform to standards that are set in the global arena.