## Macro-Fiscal Management Practices in Eastern and Southern Africa

_IMF Working Papers, February 5, 2021_

## Source details

**Canonical URL:** [Macro-Fiscal Management Practices in Eastern and Southern Africa](https://www.imf.org/en/publications/wp/issues/2021/02/06/macro-fiscal-management-practices-in-eastern-and-southern-africa-50042)

## Other formats

- [Markdown version](/en/publications/wp/issues/2021/02/06/macro-fiscal-management-practices-in-eastern-and-southern-africa-50042/index.md)
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## Bibliographic details
- Authors: Ian Lienert
- Published: February 5, 2021
- Series: IMF Working Papers
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.5089/9781513567730.001

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### Overview and scope
- Examines the institutional arrangements of the macro-fiscal function in 16 African countries.
- Most ministries of finance (MoFs) have established a macro-fiscal department or unit, but their functions, size, structure and outputs vary considerably.
- Based on a survey, presents data on staff size, functional scope and the forecasting performance of macro-fiscal departments and identifies common challenges in the countries reviewed.
- Some MoFs perform many macro-fiscal functions, but actions of various kinds are needed to strengthen their macro-fiscal departments.
- Provides guidance for policy-makers in the region for enhancing the quality and scope of macro-fiscal outputs.

### Key findings (from the paper)
- Existence and variation:
  - Most MoFs have a macro-fiscal department or unit.
  - Functions, size, structure and outputs of these departments vary considerably across the 16 countries.
- Survey-based evidence:
  - Data presented on staff size, functional scope and forecasting performance of macro-fiscal departments.
- Common challenges identified across countries reviewed:
  - Variability in capacity and outputs of macro-fiscal units.
  - Need for strengthening to improve forecasting performance and broaden functional scope.
- Role and outputs:
  - Some MoFs perform many macro-fiscal functions, suggesting heterogeneity in responsibilities and capabilities across the region.

### Policy guidance and recommendations
- Strengthen macro-fiscal departments through a range of actions (paper provides guidance for policy-makers).
- Enhance the quality and scope of macro-fiscal outputs, including:
  - Improving staff capacity and functional coverage.
  - Strengthening forecasting performance and methodological approaches.
  - Addressing institutional and organizational differences to promote consistent macro-fiscal practices.

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## Content in this bundle

- **Working Paper**
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_Source: https://www.imf.org/en/publications/wp/issues/2021/02/06/macro-fiscal-management-practices-in-eastern-and-southern-africa-50042_