Valderrama, Camilo

This paper explores literature related to the dynamics and methods of strengthening community-based participation in the context of programmes for democratic decentralisation. It specifically examines the merging of two distinct traditions of participation, social/project and political, and looks at the linking of development with the state, and a concept of governance that is accountable to civil society.

In the light of a recent decentralisation law in Mozambique this study examines the possible obstacles and facilitating factors regarding decision-making sharing between traditional authorities, the local government and NGOs involved in a rural development plan in Mandima Distict, Niassa Province.