An Examination of Budget Transparency, Accountability and Governance: A Study of Five (5) Sub-Saharan African Countries

Abstract

Budget transparency is a precondition for public participation in budget processes. The combination of budget transparency and public participation in budget processes has the potential to combat corruption, foster public accountability of government agencies and contribute to judicious use of public funds. In this article, the author examined budget transparency, accountability and governance in five (5) Sub-Saharan African Countries. This paper employed a mixed-method research approach to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. It was found out from the study that while each country (Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe) has made efforts to enhance budget transparency, accountability, and governance, persistent challenges such as corruption, weak institutional capacity, and political interference continue to shape outcomes and hinder progress in these critical areas. The findings therefore, is a clarion call for sub African countries to show commitment towards public sector transparency, good governance in other to achieve and facilitate accountability.