ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book focuses on how local governments can help guarantee the universal provision of basic services, and much else besides. It reviews issues of governance, management and funding and considers local government engagement with community organizations and the private sector. The book highlights the differences in the extent to which rural and urban populations have electricity and use clean fuels. It explores how different degrees and forms of decentralization affect service delivery. The book demonstrates, basic service provision is best where empowered local governments have the authority, resources and capacity to fulfil their responsibilities in delivery. It notes cases where local governments have promoted renewable energies or helped isolated areas with locally owned utilities. The book ends by discussing emerging challenges and the role of decentralization and basic services in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and in the Post-2015 sustainable development agenda.
