Episode 24

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Published on:

26th Sep 2025

How to build trust and capabilities for effective governance in Africa

In this episode of Afronomics, host Andrew Dabalen speaks with Dr. Ken Opalo, a leading scholar on African political economy and governance. Opalo, an associate professor at Georgetown University and author of Legislative Development in Africa. Dr. Opalo shares sharp insights on the rise of public protests, the limits of electoral democracy, and the urgent need for African governments to rebuild trust through better service delivery and inclusive growth. The conversation explores bold ideas for reform, including stronger political institutions, elite consensus, and homegrown development strategies. For more on the topic of service delivery in Africa, you can turn to our recent report: CPIA Africa: Better Policies for Service Delivery.

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About the Podcast

Afronomics
Podcast series of World Bank Africa Region
This occasional podcast series brings together development experts, academics and thought leaders, as well as public and private sector partners, to discuss trends that are impacting growth and development in Africa. Afronomics was started in 2017 and is now hosted by Andrew Dabalen, the World Bank Chief Economist for Africa. The series spans a wide range of topics from health and education to jobs, infrastructure, debt, and economic challenges and opportunities in Africa.

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World Bank Podcast Team