Introduction 

One of the most important aspects of any human interaction is conflict. It is not only a universal experience but also natural to human development. In its positive connotation, conflict may lead to rejuvenation of society, strengthening of social order and retooling of societal norms and values. However, conflict can have debilitating effects on a country or society if it is not effectively managed. It is now a well-known fact that the inability to effectively manage conflicts in Africa has resulted in mayhem, loss of life and untold hardships. 

One of the paradoxes in African politics today is the synergy between democratization, development management and conflict. On one hand, democratization is to promote good governance and development, which will lead to peace and stability in the African continent. On the other hand, democratization is said to have given rise to conflicts because of the following factors: 

·        government intolerance and authoritarianism;

·        lack of transparency and accountability;

·        poor respect for the rule of law and civil liberties;

·        inequalities;

·        poor accessibility to governmental provision of goods and services; and

·        disparity between governmental resources and aspirations of citizens. 

Consequently, democratization rather than reduce conflicts has tended to exacerbate them in a continent, whose human and material resources are severely limited to deal with problems of development and underdevelopment. 

It is against this background that the third Conference of the Development Policy Management Forum (DPMF) was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from 23 to 26 November 1999.

Opening Addresses 

Dr H.C. Sadza, Commissioner, Public Service Commission, Zimbabwe and Board Member of the DPMF chaired the opening session. She welcomed the participants who included representatives of non-governmental organizations, donor agencies, and academics and cautioned that the conference should not be a “talking shop” but one that should come out with a set agenda for action. 

The following made the opening speeches: 

·        Mr. Sam Ibok - Representative of the Organization of African Unity (OAU);

·