A policy analysis of the Gautrain public-private partnership in South Africa.

Abstract

The emergence of the New Public Management in the 1980s saw the introduction of several forms of governance aimed at improving efficiency and effectiveness in government. Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) were such forms. However, the use of PPPs in government has received mixed reactions. In one breath PPPs are touted by some as a means of governance which can reduce costs, improve quality of service as well as enhance efficiency in the delivery of public service and infrastructure. In another, PPPs are criticised for compromising the crucial pillars of governance namely accountability, transparency and public participation. This study into in the Gautrain-Rapid-Rail-Link of South Africa reveals that PPPs may bring about both positive and negative outcomes as propounded by advocates and opponents of PPPs. This study further shows that if properly managed, factors that limit positive outcomes of PPPs may be reduced.