Empirical and textual analyses of development issues seem to suggest that the fundamental flaw in the early initiatives1 of Africa’s leadership to address the socio-economic problems of the continent was embedded in neo-liberal inspired economic reductionist approach to development. This approach is premised on the ‘econo-mythical invocation that if the economics are right everything else would fall into place’ (Cernea 1994:07). An economic reductionist approach to Africa’s development is inadequate. Cultural, sociological, psychological, political and administrative factors are also important dimensions of development that merit substantial consideration in the quest for the solution of the socio-economic problems besetting the African continent. For development to be sustainable a multi-disciplinary approach is required. In this article the political administrative dimension of development with specific reference to good governance in the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) is, from a conceptual perspective, examined.