International Journal of Political Science and Development
 

International Journal of Political Science and Development

Vol. 2(11), pp. 266–287, December, 2014.  

DOI: 10.14662/IJPSD2014.053

ISSN: 2360-784X

Research Paper

This paper investigates and reflects on the relationship between governance and institutions. Very specifically, the paper explores different theoretical and empirical debates about governance in general and good governance in particular in local political settings. Drawing upon “new institutionalism”, the paper offers a satisfactory analytical framework for understanding the ability of the institutions of governance in Tanzania, from their inception through their development over time, to meet the needs of the local community. This analysis links the present state of institutional arrangements, the originating context or set of circumstances behind the creation of that institution, and the sequence of connecting events—institutional path dependence. I have indicated in this paper that studying local governance in Tanzania brings strongly into focus the nature of the relationship between institutions and the quality of service provision at the local level. This analytical approach not only helps to provide objectives and meaning for governance, but also offers a path to understanding the fundamental shortcomings of the institutions of governance in Tanzania. The paper concludes by arguing that, the problems of governance in Tanzania and likely in other developing countries is not a lack of sound development policies, but rather the institutional mechanisms necessary to translate those policies into desirable results.

Key Words: Governance, Good Governance, New institutionalism, Institutions, Tanzania

 

Cite This Article As: Mgonja BES (2014). The New Institutional Approach to Understanding Good Governance in Tanzania. Inter. J. Polit. Sci. Develop. 2(11): 266-287

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