Marie Michael Library

Power, politics, and performance: community participation in South African public works programs

Adato, Michelle; Hoddinott, John; Haddad, Lawrence

Since 1994, public works programs have been part of South Africa's efforts to reduce poverty. This report analyzes the responsibilities of community forums and community-based committees; the value added by community participation in project development, and the problems introduced; the impact of community participation on project performance. The research provides a window into the changes and challenges faced by South Africa since 1994 and reveals the dilemmas and possibilities pertaining to community-driven development projects.