Urban natural assets for Africa handbook series: Handbook 4

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS HANDBOOK

• Both formal and informal governance structures exist within city councils in Africa. The former are supported by policies and legal frameworks, and can be easily mapped; the latter are based on unspoken agreements and invisible power dynamics, and are therefore more complex to grasp.
• By having an in-depth understanding of both official (formal) and unofficial (informal) decision-making processes in African cities, external organisations are better able to build relationships with the right contact people, improve communication, avoid conflict and co-create entry points for real change.
• Through the UNA programme and other projects, ICLEI Africa has developed a sound methodology for understanding and working with informal governance structures. Our approach relies on regular face-to-face engagements with key players at various levels, documentation of dynamics through stakeholder and mandate mapping exercises, and a respect for the sensitivity of this information.

WHO SHOULD CONSULT THIS HANDBOOK?

• Organisations working on sustainability and development issues in Africa
• Academic researchers (and related organisations)