The 5th African School on Decentralisation (ASD) 2025
The 5th Edition of the African School on Decentralisation (ASD), themed Decentralisation and Finances, hosted by the Dullah Omar Institute [South African Research Chair in Multilevel Government] at the University of the Western Cape and the Centre of Federalism and Governance Studies at Addis Ababa University, brought together 24 dynamic participants from 10 vibrant African countries for an unforgettable experience from 13–25 October 2025.
Our journey kicked off in the beautiful City of Cape Town, where Executive Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis welcomed participants. His inspiring keynote address set the stage, illustrating the power of decentralisation through Cape Town's story and challenging us all to reimagine local governance across Africa. It was followed by a Mayors’ Roundtable, convened by the Commonwealth Local Government Forum, entitled Financing the Future of African Cities.
The days were packed with thought-provoking seminars, lively focus group discussions, and a hands-on site visit to the Western Cape Provincial Parliament. They included lectures by Prof Tania Ajam (Stellenbosch University), Dr Jamie Boex (Local Public Service Alliance), and Prof Henk Kummeling (Utrecht University). Participants saw democracy in action and engaged with members of the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs. Mrs Sharonne Adams, Head of Portfolio for Auditing across three provinces [Western Cape, Northern Cape and the Free State], added real-world insight from the Auditor-General’s Office, sharing the triumphs and trials of municipal audits in South Africa.
Week two whisked us away to the scenic Mont Fleur Conference venue in Stellenbosch, nestled among majestic mountains and lush wine farms. Here, sessions explored everything from fiscal distress and property taxes to innovative ways of tackling municipal corruption, including a gripping dialogue with City Manager Mr Johann Mettler. The week also featured the Annual Dullah Omar Memorial Lecture, during which Prof Nico Steytler challenged law students to embody the spirit of Human Rights advocacy. The participants also engaged with Mr David Jackson and Ms Lucy Slack (Secretary General of the CLGF) on the issue of Accessing International Development Funds in a session convened by the Commonwealth Local Government Forum.
Of course, it was not all work—participants tackled a written exam, let off steam in ball games, and even hiked the breathtaking Mont Fleur trails. The adventure concluded in style with a festive dinner, where everyone donned their finest traditional African attire to celebrate new friendships and shared achievements.
Click here to view the photo gallery of the 5th African School on Decentralisation.