Privatisation in a developing country: insights from the Gambia

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to study the privatisation process and its impact on organisational change in the electricity industry in the Gambia. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative methodology was used for the study as qualitative techniques make use of a holistic approach, which allows for the assembling of a comprehensive and complete picture of the process under investigation. Findings – The findings from the research suggest that change processes that are endogenous are more likely to achieve their desired objectives when compared to exogenous changes. Research limitations/implications – The study suggests that there is a relationship between the locus of change and the level of trust associated with the drivers of change. Future research on privatisation could make a significant contribution if focussed on the social processes of privatisation. Practical implications – The study shows that privatisation will only occur if all interests become associated with a reformative pattern of value commitment. A normative vision made up of ideas, beliefs, and values that shape prevailing conceptions must be present to support the process. Originality/value – Research has shown that most changes carried out in less developed countries (LDCs) under the auspices of the WB/IMF, have not achieved the desired outcomes. This study has shown that the initiation and control of reform from outside affects the outcomes of the change programme. It is therefore imperative for funding agencies to concentrate on providing assistance to enable LDCs design control and implement their own changes rather than the funding agencies taking control of this aspect of reform.