Kenya · 14 December 2009 · 1 min
In every country in which it works, the AKDN seeks to promote an enabling environment – the adoption of laws and policies that allow, favour and mainstream the creation of civil society institutions, promote good governance and foster a socially responsible private sector.
In AKDN’s experience, “enabling environments” are especially effective in alleviating poverty when the private sector plays a vital role.
The private sector can be especially effective when it cooperates with governments that foster legislative, regulatory and fiscal structures that promote development rather than impede it. Public-private partnerships have been shown to provide solutions to both chronic and emerging development challenges.
The enabling environment, when it is instituted, has knock-on effects that first affect perception – both external and internal – and then lead to tangible benefits. Appropriate laws and regulations encourage enterprise and initiative. The existence of democratic governance – including an independent media and the protection of the rights of citizens – persuades good managers, doctors, nurses and teachers to stay and serve their country, rather than emigrate as soon as they are skilled. Such an environment also draws inward investment which can have rapid and dramatic effects on employment, human resource development and the overall economy.