Role of trust and value creation in public governance via lenses of public value theory

Public trust and value creation in government have declined across many countries due to governance failures, corruption, limited transparency, and growing citizen expectations. This has prompted renewed interest in governance frameworks that emphasise trust and value creation within public institutions. This study explores the role of trust and value in public governance through the lens of Public Value Theory (PVT) in contemporary Africa. The paper examines how governments can move beyond traditional bureaucratic and market-driven models toward newer theories, such as PVT, that prioritise trust and value creation, responsiveness, accountability, and citizen engagement. Through a conceptual and analytical review of existing literature, the study assesses the relevance of PVT in describing the trust and value deficit between governments and citizens. It argues that aligning public institutions' policies, services, and decision-making processes with societal values and collective interests can enhance legitimacy and rebuild public confidence. The study further highlights key governance practices—such as participatory decision-making, transparency, and collaborative governance—that support the generation of public value and confidence in government. The paper concludes that Public Value Theory provides a promising framework for contemporary governance reforms aimed at restoring trust and strengthening the relationship between governments and citizens in increasingly complex and demanding democratic environments.