Journal of Contemporary Issues in Business and Government

Abstract

The rise of digital platforms cannot be overstated in terms of how it improves the role and
functions of local governments in terms of law and order, taxation, legislation, regulation,
education, health care, and social development. One of the principal objectives of embracing
e-governance is to provide citizens with basic services, enhancing efficiency, transparency,
and accountability of local and national governments as well as any other government
department or institution. The million-dollar question would be, is Africa ready? Are local
authorities ready? If not, what would be the precluding factors in adopting e-governance?
This paper seeks to interrogate e-governance practices in the SADC region, exposing how the
process has been so dire due to fumbling in the region’s local government institutions. This
helps the government to align services with the changing needs of both citizens and other
stakeholders as it deliberates the challenges that render the fumbling of local authorities at
crossroads. The existing paradox presents a challenge as to the preparedness of local
authorities to embrace holistically the dictates of e-governance in a globalised society. An
empirical study was conducted to provide primary evidence on e-governance systems in local
authorities. The researchers in this paper adopt an in-depth review of the existing body of
literature premised on the functions of local authorities in Africa and the SADC region. The
findings and recommendations derived from this paper will aid in developing an egovernance
model in the SADC region which will feed into ICT policy frameworks. Future
research on e-governance across the African continent needs to be commissioned to have a
full understanding of e-governance in developing economies