Regulating for Results – Applying a Theory of Change in South Africa’s Network Industries

This chapter presents a detailed discussion of the Theory of ChangeTheory of Change (ToC) proposed for regulating South Africa’sAfrica network industriesNetwork industries. It builds on the book’s earlier theoretical and empirical chapters to articulate a logic that links regulatory inputsInputs, processes, and decisions to developmental outcomesOutcomes. The Theory of Change is not offered as a technocratic solution or one-size-fits-all model. Rather, it is a framework for institutional alignment, accountabilityAccountability, and performance-based reform. It helps to reframe the goals of regulationRegulation and to define more clearly the roles of policymakersPolicymakers, regulators, and operators within a results-driven governance system. Expectedly, the Theory of Change can be introduced in an environment enabled by collaboration as opposed to contestation between the political leadership and the professionals within the regulators and the public service generally. This approach grounds the professionalisation of the public service around results instead of self preservation - that is the relentless pursuit of short term interests.