Theories and Practices of Sustainable Development in Africa

Sustainable development (SD) involves economic growth with non-declining inter-generational benefit by maintaining environmental balance overtime. However, the conceptual and practical complexity of traditional SD has challenged its implementation. Consequently, this chapter provides a modified approach to SD called Institutionalized Sustainable Development (ISD) model, which augments the institutional governance into the three pillars of sustainable development: social, economic and environmental aspects. It argues that SD can be achieved when capable institutions are established that can optimize resource use; integrate economic development, environment and social inclusion. The Sustainable development practice of Africa has been assessed and lessons are drawn for future development ends. The resource use, task, and goal prioritization are the main motivators of developing these models. Its application requires development of indigenous knowledge and local capacity, planned investment, good governance, research and innovation directed towards realization of inclusive sustainable development in Africa.