From Policy Reform to Strategic Governance Reconfiguration: Pathways to Sustainable Development in Africa

ABSTRACT Sustainable development remains a central objective of public policy. However, governance reforms in Africa have achieved limited results due to fragmented policies, weak institutions, and low adaptive capacity. These challenges are compounded by overlapping governance frameworks operating across continental, regional, and national levels. This study re‐examines governance frameworks and introduces the Sustainable Development Governance Model (SDGM) to align public policy and governance with sustainability goals. Guided by the research question (how can governance frameworks be strategically re‐evaluated to improve public policy effectiveness and sustainable development?), the study employs qualitative content analysis to examine key governance frameworks across policy scales. The findings reveal persistent structural and coordination gaps despite emerging institutional innovations and adaptive governance practices. The analysis shows that incremental reforms are ineffective without coordinated policies, adaptable institutions, and multilevel governance integration. The study contributes to governance and policy studies by offering a framework that moves beyond reform‐oriented approaches. Related Articles Ben Brik, Anis. 2025. “Deconstructing Policy Evaluation in the Global South: Historical, Political, and Transnational Influences.” Politics & Policy 53, no. 5: e70061. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.70061 . Villanueva Ulfgard, Rebecka. 2019. “Mexico's Struggle with Development between Global Compromises and National Development Plans.” Politics & Policy 47, no. 1: 50–78. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12288 . Adegboye, Alex, Kofo Adegboye, Uwalomwa Uwuigbe, Stephen Ojeka, and Eyitemi Fasanu. 2023. “Taxation, Democracy, and Inequality in Sub‐Saharan Africa: Relevant Linkages for Sustainable Development Goals.” Politics & Policy 51, no. 4: 696‐722. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12547 .