A. Introduction

Before examining specific case studies of public-private partnerships, it is helpful to understand the context of urban development, environmental management and the potential for engaging the private sector.

This chapter begins with an overview of current development cooperation approaches and instruments for improving urban environmental conditions in the South, paying particular attention to the potential role for public-private partnerships. Findings presented in the first section are based on a 1997 study undertaken by Adriana Allen and Adrian Atkinson entitled The Urban Environment in Development Cooperation: A Background Study that surveys the European Union's experience in supporting urban environmental initiatives.

Following the survey of EU efforts are statements from the municipal leaders of Colombo, Maputo and Windhoek. Although the economic, environmental conditions and capacities of the three cities vary widely, each faces substantial challenges in providing adequate public service coverage for their populations and suggests that traditional development cooperation will not be sufficient by itself. The government officials appear receptive to involving the private sector in public services provision and in some cases have substantial experience forging PPP agreements at the local level.

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