Public Administration in South Africa: Repositioning for Effective Governance and Development

Abstract

This study examines the critical need to reposition public administration in South Africa to enhance governance effectiveness and drive sustainable development outcomes. The paper traces the historical legacies of colonialism and apartheid that have deeply shaped the country's public administration system, characterizing it by racial discrimination, systemic marginalization, and inefficient bureaucratic structures. The transition to democracy in 1994 marked a pivotal juncture, catalysing efforts to reform public administration and align it with the principles of democracy, equality, and accountability. However, the legacy of the past continues to cast a long shadow, manifesting in persistent challenges such as corruption, bureaucratic inefficiencies, resource constraints, and service delivery bottlenecks. Drawing on a theoretical framework encompassing New Public Management, Collaborative Governance, and Historical Institutionalism, the study undertakes a comprehensive analysis of the historical context, current challenges, and international best practices to propose actionable strategies for repositioning South Africa's public administration. Key focus areas include strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing leadership capacity, promoting transparency and accountability, and fostering citizen-centric service delivery. The study concludes that realigning public administration with the broader development goals and aspirations of South Africa is crucial for fostering inclusive growth, social equity, and sustainable development. By addressing the historical legacies and contemporary complexities, this research aims to contribute to the discourse on governance transformation and the pivotal role of public administration in shaping the country's future.