Go to AfricaBib home

Go to AfricaBib home AfricaBib Go to database home

bibliographic database
Line
Previous page New search

The free AfricaBib App for Android is available here

Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Institutions in search of direction: the role of advisory committees in the regional development process
Author:Davies, W.J.ISNI
Year:1991
Periodical:Urban Forum
Volume:2
Issue:1
Pages:1-19
Language:English
Geographic term:South Africa
Subjects:institutions
regional development
External link:https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF03036667
Abstract:Although Regional Development Advisory Committees (RDAC), and their associated Regional Development Associations (RDA) have been around for a number of years, RDAs and RDACs are largely unknown in the regions of South Africa in which they operate. This paper explores the role and future of RDACs. RDACs appear to have evolved from the principle of RDAs, and represent an attempt by the State to mobilize and formalize regional opinion regarding the process of socioeconomic development. RDACs are intended to be advisory bodies and do not have any executive authority. An examination of RDAC objectives is followed by a discussion of the composition of RDACs. Membership of an RDAC requires a ministerial appointment based on nominations submitted by regional interests. It is a serious shortcoming that RDACs have never accommodated the interests of black communities in their regions. A review of RDAC performance in three regions, conducted in 1988-1990, shows that the most serious shortcoming of the RDAC is their lack of executive authority and their inability ever to get things done. Attention is also paid to the introduction in 1990 of LCC and JCC (Local and Joint Coordinating Centres), which may provide opportunities for the RDAs and RDACs to become more closely involved in guiding the operational/implementing activities of the central government. In the future, RDACs should start developing into NGOs which are beyond the control of the State. Bibliogr.