Abstract
Mainstream discourses often construe policy innovation in the context of public policy targeted at achieving innovation in a particular domain. However, this chapter argues this is not the same as fostering innovation within the public policy life cycle. The innovation discourse has transitioned from its purely scientific and technical focus to include digital opportunities and the evolution of new business models. Africa has underlying political economy issues manifesting as social, economic, and policy challenges. To understand what has happened to the African economy and society, it is important to situate the varying degrees of state and market involvement in resource allocation dating back at least to the immediate post-independence period. Policy learning provides a more feasible pathway for policy entrepreneurs and innovators to bridge existing practical knowledge gaps by learning and creating opportunities through innovative and creative approaches. The parameters of a policy implementation path are key drivers of the eventual policy outcome.