Introduction

South Africa’s democratic transformation has introduced and facilitated many significant changes in the country’s society and economy. One development strategy which has received considerable attention, from policy makers in South Africa and elsewhere, is that of Local Economic Development (LED). The relatively sophisticated LED endeavours in the countries of the North are matched by emerging moves to develop local self-reliance or coping strategies in the countries of the South. South Africa’s political transition has encouraged an awareness, international development endeavours in general and LED applications in particular, on the part of various development orientated organizations. In South Africa the successes and future potential of LED in local areas is receiving recognition from national and provincial governments, funding agencies, non-government organizations, the private sector and a limited number of local authorities and community based organizations. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.