Executing Regional, Communal Projects : Challenges Of Meeting PIB Expectations

The principle of decentralisation warrants the separation of powers to facilitate the development process. This is the case with regional and local authorities who have powers to embark on projects outlined for execution through the Public Investment Budget (PIB). In fact, the General Code on Regional and Local Authorities (RLA) highlights the duties of elected officials, including their role of monitoring the execution of projects. With PIB intended to be used for the funding of projects that will provide fundamental services to the population which cannot be provided for by the private sector. Usually, such projects include the tarring of roads, construction of bridges and government schools and health centres, as well as the construction of water points and markets. In the process, elected officials are faced with difficulties which affect the timely execution of these projects. 
Firstly, there are still adapting to the concept of programme budgeting, a relatively new performance-based approach which is more result-oriented. Regional and local authorities do not seem to adequately master the dynamics involved. Switching from the initial process which was a budget-based on objectives approach needs some time. Authorities are still grappling to understand and master the process for effective and efficient implementation. Experts need to be trained and or hired to assist in the process as well. In addition, the programme budget requires a lot of information as it takes ample time to determine the exact financial resources. Should the programme budget be incorrect, it will lead to increased cost.
Regional and City Councils are new institutions in the decentralisation process. As such, they are faced with the problem of adequate personnel who can better draft and implement PIB projects within stated timeframes. A lot of expertise is required, reason the National School of Local Administration in Buea has some training programmes on managing regions and regional resources. Difficulties surrounding the mobilisatio...