2005 African Governance Report I ?Striving for good governance in Africa?

This report is a synopsis of the first major continent-wide study to measure and monitor ?Progress towards Good Governance in Africa,? undertaken by the Economic commission for Africa (ECA). The study conducted surveys and desk research in 28 project countries. The full results and analysis of the study are to be published in the first African Governance Report in 2005. ECA initiated this work to gauge citizens? feelings about the state of governance in Africa, to gather information on best practices and to identify the main requirements for capacity development in the region. The project identified four positive trends on the road to creating capable states in Africa: democratic transitions, political inclusiveness, voice and accountability and economic management. In the area of democratic transitions, many African countries have made significant strides, evolving from authoritarian or military regimes to more democratic arangements. We see a new social pact emerging, where state institutions and processes are gradually being reconstructed to promote the values of good governance. Indeed, elections have become the only acceptable basis for choosing and changing leadership.