The term civil society is used to refer to organizations and actors that act separately from the government and often identify as non-partisan. Roles and places of civil societies in social development change over time to accommodate the needs that a particular society faces at an opportune time. Despite what propaganda may say, the civil society is positioned to support the government and other actors in development. There is a strong need for lasting partnerships that are based on mutual benefit between civil societies in Africa and other regional institutions. Civil societies in Africa have grown greatly thus effecting change in the community cannot be disregarded. More so, regional institutions such as The East African Community continue to work closely with civil organizations further strengthening their impact in society. These insights were shared among the participants of the workshop held by the University of Johannesburg on “African Societies and Regional Institutions.” It was clear that the actors in this sector play the following roles.
Civil societies as watchdog Civil societies as organizations in Africa have shown strong initiatives to support and challenge different thematic development initiatives. It is unfortunate that social problems such as corruption and gender inequality either evolve or change but they are never fully eliminated. While the government takes the forefoot in such amendments and discussions, it is the work of the civil society to hold the government accountable and further push the agenda. In times when the government is being reluctant to act in the best light of citizens, the actors in the civil societies often rise to the occasion to push affirmative action. The Youth Café’s project on Engaging Youths in the Fight against Corruption is an example of the aspirations of many actors in the civil society towards change. Such projects and patterns can be traced in many countries across Africa where non-political associations decided to change the narrative on certain issues in their country. In doing so, many entities often have to work together, to build coalitions and to collectively have a stronger voice towards effectuating change.
Civil societies as knowledge-builders Knowledge that is backed by research is by far the most important asset that a government and its stakeholders could have in the process of change. The society is often changing based on the influence of technology, different attitudes and changing social norms. These changes are albeit inspired or caused by new knowledge. However, change doesn’t come easy as it requires new understanding and a shift in paradigm that may not be foreseen or embraced. The process of acquiring new data and statistics to capture the society in its realest form is one of the most glorified factors of the civil society actors. As the third sector of society, many civil organizations require the close support and agreeableness of the government. It is not only necessary to include the other arms of society in the planning stage but also to carry their participation throughout the process. There is a strong reason why the governments as well as individuals are considered key stakeholders in many public policy projects. Civil societies as development actors Despite having strong research and accountability measures for government promises, the civil society is also prominent for various multi-million dollar grant-based projects that are community-oriented. There is a tendency for many civil institutions to work with volunteers who often bring vast resources, information or skills necessary for the achievement and development of many community projects. The unitary aspect that makes many civil societies excellent in what they do is the scope-centered approach that leads to identification of a specific thematic area or target group for action. The same way that The Youth café has identified youths as the organization’s core, there are other organizations that have specified their operation base in the same way. With the help of initiatives like Generation Equality Forum, many organizations are working towards specific sustainable development goals that unite them. Working with regional institutions has become easier and definitely, more sustainable.
The scope of civil societies is large and transcend from local to international settings fostering opportunities for partnerships as long as there is mutuality of issues.- Professor Kammila Naidoo of the University of Johannesburg