Parliamentary networking as an instrument of capacity building : evidence from East Africa

Abstract

This article discusses the effectiveness of parliamentary networks in East Africa as a tool of capacity building. Given the circumstances prevailing in most African parliaments, there is growing consensus supporting the view that networks are one of the key capacity building instruments on the continent. The article proceeds to discuss the extent that there are no dedicated formal colleges to train parliamentarians and parliamentary staff for their multiple functions. Networking with sister institutions does serve as one critical mechanism for exchanging and sharing information, knowledge and internationally-acknowledged best practices in order to enhance institutional and individual capacities.