Pitfalls of Decentralisation

In organizations where many departments require access to the same data or resources, decentralization causes a gap of disconnect between them. But often, a number of problems, including a lack of resources, a lack of institutional strength, insufficient accounting and accountability systems, and a lack of information availability, limit the performance and responsibility of subnational or local governments.

Accounting, auditing and accountability

Institutional Capacity

Information, participation and civil society

Lack of resources

Limited revenue collection

Limited local taxing powers

Local government dependence on grant sources

Service delivery levels fall short as a result

Weak accounting systems in local government

Delayed local accounts finalisation

Limitations in creating trust in how funds have been used

Decision-making procedures are not methodical.

Shortage of technical and skilled personel

Due to lack of resources to attract and retain staff compared to private sector

Insufficient channels for officials and elected authorities to hold each other accountable.

high levels of corruption and inadequate service delivery

Poor ward council representation

Inadequate equitable access to resources to finance infrastructure and services at the local level

There is minimal knowledge of alternative policy options and access to information about the true performance of those in power is limited