The Introduction provides an overview of the fundamental challenges faced by the public sector, including climate change, demographic shifts and the demands of the digital economy. It emphasises the need for public management reform and the opportunities presented by digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI). The European Union's AI Act and the African Union's Continental AI Strategy highlight the importance of international collaboration and capacity building. The document also discusses the significant infrastructure gap in Africa, stressing the need for innovative funding approaches and public–private partnerships to drive economic development. Case studies illustrate the importance of developing public management skills to effectively engage in these partnerships. The document concludes with a focus on governance challenges in local authorities, particularly in the energy sector, and proposes a comprehensive governance model to address these issues and facilitate climate change responses and local energy transitions.