Policy process analysis: Advocacy coalitions in the Namibian electricity market reform

Abstract

This study explores the policy process in the Namibian Electricity Supply Industry in relation to the development of the Modified Single Buyer market model. The research employs the Advocacy Coalition Framework as a theoretical framework wherein actors within a policy subsystem are conceptualized as forming advocacy coalitions based on shared beliefs and engaging in coordinated efforts over time to influence policy direction. The analysis has uncovered the existence of two prominent coalitions: the progressive coalition is advocating for market liberalisation, while the conservative coalition is seeking to preserve the status quo and resist the adoption of the new electricity market model. The study concludes that powerful actors in the Electricity Supply Industry, although equipped with enormous economic resources and strong political ties, could not prevent the regulator from implementing comprehensive changes in the electricity sector. However, the conservative coalition has managed to negotiate for a phased implementation of the policy to ensure minimal disruption in the industry and to guarantee the security of the electricity supply in the long run. The phased implementation also allows sufficient time for this coalition to realign their business strategies within the new regulation policy and maintain their status as relevant and critical actors.