Implementing public–private partnerships (PPPs) can provide national governments with much more attractive conditions for private investment. In return, governments can gain many advantages from private investors, such as greater operational efficiency, management capacity, technology and innovation – ultimately leading to better quality public services. For the private sector, participating in a PPP brings in revenue from the public sector, which is then used to repay borrowing, cover costs and make profits. SADC has a clear focus on long-term infrastructure development. In recent years several countries have begun to develop legislation and dedicated PPP capacity, mirroring South African best practice as well as frameworks and toolkits developed by multilateral institutions such as the World Bank. This policy insights explores the various factors that contribute to the successful implementation of PPPs in the region, drawing lessons from a selection of successful PPP projects in the water and sanitation, energy and transport sectors in SADC.
