africa – Register for AEC 2021

In democracy

Ghana Polls: The Road ahead for John Dramani Mahama

December 11, 2024 No Comments

Africa’s home of gold, Ghana had recently conducted a free and fair electoral process where they voted President John Dramani Mahama as President-Elect. In this blog, we will look at the road ahead for President-Elect John Dramani Mahama and Ghana; The Gateway to Africa.

But First off, the African Economic Congress (AEC) wishes to congratulate all Ghanaians and residents for a peaceful general election. AEC notes with pride the maturity exhibited by the people of Ghana in the period leading to, during, and immediately after the election.

The AEC also wishes to especially congratulate our dear friend, and the President-elect, President John Dramani Mahama on his victory and the trust the people of Ghana have placed in him once again to lead the nation. Your election represents the hopes and aspirations of millions who are eager to see Ghana continue on its trajectory of growth, development, and unity.

With that said, here are pressing areas that need immediate attention to improve the lives of Ghanaians.

Economic Stability: Strengthen policies to address inflation, reduce the debt burden, and create sustainable jobs, especially for the youth.

Healthcare: Enhance healthcare infrastructure, ensure equitable access to quality care, and tackle the persistent challenges in rural areas.

Education: Invest in quality education, ensure schools are well-equipped, and support teachers to improve learning outcomes.

Infrastructure Development: Prioritize road networks, water supply systems, and energy projects to facilitate development, particularly in underserved regions.

Agriculture and Food Security: Support farmers with modern tools, inputs, and policies to boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security.

Corruption and Governance: Strengthen accountability and transparency to regain public trust and ensure efficient use of resources.

Climate and Environment: Promote sustainable environmental practices to address climate change challenges and protect natural resources.

We trust that your leadership will bring about positive change and a brighter future for all Ghanaians. May wisdom, integrity, and compassion guide your decisions as you serve the nation.

In development

African Union Reform and the Future of African Development

December 11, 2024 No Comments

Established in 2002, the African Union (AU) was designed to promote unity, peace, and development across the continent. However, over the years, the AU has faced criticism for inefficiency, lack of funding, and its inability to address Africa’s most pressing challenges, such as insecurity, poverty, and corruption.

In this blog, we explore the ongoing AU reform process and its implications for Africa’s future.

The Need for African Union Reform

Despite its ambitious goals, the African Union has often struggled to deliver impactful results due to several challenges, including:

1. Fragmentation and Regionalism

While the AU seeks to promote African unity, the continent remains fragmented, with numerous overlapping regional organisations, such as ECOWAS (West Africa), SADC (Southern Africa), and EAC (East Africa). This fragmentation frequently results in duplication of efforts and inefficiencies in achieving the AU’s mission.

2. Resource Challenges

The AU has historically relied heavily on external donors for funding, which undermines its autonomy and decision-making capacity. Donor priorities often influence the Union’s agenda, leaving it vulnerable to external interests.

3. Ineffective Peace and Security Mechanisms

Despite mechanisms like the African Standby Force (ASF) and the Peace and Security Council (PSC), the AU has struggled to respond effectively to armed conflicts, coups, and human rights violations. This highlights the need to strengthen its peace and security framework.

4. Leadership and Governance Issues

The AU has been criticised for weak institutional leadership, poor governance practices, and a lack of accountability. These issues have contributed to inefficiencies and hindered its ability to achieve developmental goals.

Addressing these challenges is essential for the AU to fulfil its mandate and support Africa’s progress in the 21st century.

Key Pillars of the African Union Reform Agenda

The AU’s ongoing reform agenda aims to enhance its efficiency, autonomy, and effectiveness in line with Agenda 2063, Africa’s long-term development blueprint. The key reform areas include:

1. Financial Independence and Self-Sufficiency

A critical focus of AU reforms is reducing reliance on external donors. In 2016, African leaders introduced a self-financing mechanism, imposing a 0.2% levy on eligible imports to generate sustainable funding for the AU. This move aims to strengthen the Union’s financial independence and ability to implement its programmes without undue external influence.

2. Institutional Reforms and Governance

Reforming the AU’s institutional framework is central to improving its agility, responsiveness, and accountability. Key measures include:

Reforming the African Union Commission (AUC): As the AU’s executive body, the AUC is undergoing restructuring to enhance efficiency.
Leadership Accountability: Strengthening governance mechanisms to ensure greater transparency and results-oriented leadership.
Reducing Bureaucracy: Streamlining decision-making processes to enable faster implementation of initiatives.

3. Strengthening Peace and Security Mechanisms

The reform agenda prioritises enhancing the capacity of the PSC and ASF to address Africa’s security challenges. The goal is to create a more effective system for conflict prevention, rapid response, and peacebuilding across the continent.

4. Integration and Infrastructure Development

A cornerstone of Agenda 2063 is the vision of a unified Africa where goods, services, and people can move freely. Key initiatives include:

African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): This aims to create the world’s largest free trade area, fostering economic growth and regional integration.
Infrastructure Development: Through the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), the AU is driving transformative projects in transportation, energy, and ICT to enhance connectivity and trade.

The Future of African Development

The African Union’s reforms represent a significant opportunity to reshape Africa’s governance structures and address pressing developmental challenges. Achievements in financial independence, regional integration, peace and security, and institutional efficiency have the potential to position Africa as a global economic powerhouse.

However, the success of these reforms hinges on:

Political Will: Commitment from African leaders to implement and sustain reforms.
Civil Society Engagement: The involvement of African citizens to ensure transparency and accountability.
Private Sector Participation: Leveraging business expertise and resources to complement public sector efforts.

The reforms being undertaken by the African Union hold the promise of a brighter future for the continent. By addressing its challenges head-on, the AU has the potential to lead Africa toward unity, stability, and sustainable development.

In development

Africa’s Push for a Permanent Seat on the UN Security Council

December 11, 2024 No Comments

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is the world’s foremost body for regulating global security. Yet, despite numerous challenges, Africa has struggled for over a decade to secure a permanent seat at the table. This debate over an African permanent seat has been ongoing in both African and international forums, with many arguing that it’s time for the continent to be better represented in global decision-making.

Who are UNSC Members?

The UNSC consists of 15 members: five permanent members (the P5: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and 10 non-permanent members, selected every two years. The council’s structure has remained unchanged since its establishment in the aftermath of World War II, reflecting the power dynamics of that era.

The African Permanent Seat Debate

Since the UN’s inception, Africa has been advocating for a permanent seat on the Security Council. With a population of over 1.3 billion (17% of the world’s total), Africa is the only continent without permanent representation. The absence of an African voice is particularly concerning, given the continent’s significant contributions to global security and the many security challenges it faces. This underrepresentation stems from the fact that most African countries were under colonial rule when the Security Council was formed.

Africa’s Growing Global Significance

Africa has experienced significant political and economic transformation, becoming one of the world’s fastest-growing regions. It is now a major player in the global economy, rich in natural resources and diverse cultures. Given these developments, African leaders continue to press for a permanent seat to ensure the continent’s growing influence is reflected in global governance.

The Case for Inclusive Global Governance

As the world faces challenges such as climate change, financial crises, and security issues, there is an increasing demand for more inclusive global governance. A permanent African seat in the UNSC would address historical injustices and ensure that African perspectives are included in critical decisions on conflict resolution, terrorism, humanitarian crises, and peacekeeping efforts.

Challenges to Achieving a Permanent African Seat

Despite strong arguments for an African permanent seat, several challenges remain:

Veto Power: The P5 members have veto power, allowing them to block any resolution that conflicts with their interests. Adding a new permanent member could dilute their influence, making them resistant to change.
Internal Divisions: The African Union’s proposal for a permanent seat is not unanimous. Some argue for one seat, while others suggest two or more, to better reflect Africa’s political and regional diversity. This lack of consensus complicates the advocacy for a permanent seat.

The Way Forward

While obstacles remain, the call for a permanent African seat continues to gain momentum. Past UN reform proposals, including a 2005 suggestion for expanding both permanent and non-permanent seats, were blocked by the P5. However, continued African unity and international support are crucial for making progress in this area.

The debate is not just about regional representation; it’s about promoting justice, fairness, and equity in global governance.

In economy

PETROLEUM SUBSIDY REMOVAL, DANGOTE REFINERY AND THE POLITICS OF THE NIGERIAN OIL SECTOR

December 8, 2024 No Comments

Petroleum Subsidy Removal:

The fuel subsidy was a long-standing policy that kept fuel prices artificially low for Nigerian consumers
President Tinubu removed the subsidy in 2023, leading to immediate price increases
Key impacts include:
Sharp increase in transportation costs and general inflation
Reduced strain on government finances
Push towards market-determined pricing
Social protests and economic hardship for many Nigerians
Government promises of palliative measures to cushion effects

Dangote Refinery:

Africa’s largest refinery, with 650,000 barrels per day capacity
Located near Lagos in the Lekki Free Zone
Represents potential for domestic refining capacity vs historical reliance on imports
Key points:
Privately owned rather than state-owned
Designed to meet Nigeria’s full demand for refined products with excess for export
Questions about crude oil supply arrangements and pricing mechanisms
Implications for regional refining dynamics

Politics of the Nigerian Oil Sector:

Characterized by complex interplay between:
Government agencies (NNPC, now NNPC Limited)
International oil companies
Local political interests
Labor unions
Regional interests (especially Niger Delta)
Key issues:
Resource control debates
Revenue sharing formulas
Environmental concerns
Corruption allegations
Local content requirements
Pipeline vandalism and oil theft

The interconnections between these three aspects are significant:

The Dangote Refinery could potentially reduce import dependency that made subsidies so expensive
Subsidy removal affects the business case for domestic refining
Political considerations influence both subsidy policies and refinery operations

Key Power Players and Their Dynamics:

a) Government Institutions:

NNPC Limited (formerly NNPC): Transformed from a state corporation to a commercial entity
Ministry of Petroleum Resources
Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR)
Key tensions include:
Overlapping jurisdictions
Questions about autonomy
Transparency concerns
Reform implementation challenges

b) International Oil Companies (IOCs):

Shell, ExxonMobil, Chevron, Total, etc.
Notable trends:
Gradual divestment from onshore assets
Focus shift to deep offshore operations
Environmental liability concerns
Local content compliance issues
Community relations challenges

Regional Political Dimensions:

a) Niger Delta Issues:

Resource control demands
Environmental degradation
Revenue sharing disputes
Militancy and security challenges
Host community rights
Implementation challenges of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)

b) North-South Dynamics:

Control of oil institutions
Revenue allocation debates
Exploration in frontier basins
Political appointments in the sector

Economic and Structural Issues:

a) Oil Revenue Management:

Federation Account distribution
Derivation principle debates
Sovereign Wealth Fund
Excess Crude Account controversies

b) Industry Structure:

Downstream sector deregulation
Pipeline infrastructure
Transportation networks
Storage facilities
Distribution networks

Corruption and Transparency:

a) Key Challenges:

Oil theft and pipeline vandalism
Contract award processes
Subsidy payment schemes
Revenue leakages
Beneficial ownership transparency
EITI compliance issues

b) Reform Efforts:

Petroleum Industry Act implementation
Corporate governance reforms
Digitalization initiatives
Anti-corruption measures

Labor and Employment Politics:

a) Union Influence:

NUPENG (Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers)
PENGASSAN (Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association)
Impact on sector reforms
Resistance to privatization

b) Local Content Development:

Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB)
Indigenous participation requirements
Capacity building initiatives
Technology transfer issues

International Dimensions:

a) OPEC Relations:

Production quota compliance
Price stabilization efforts
International cooperation
Market share considerations

b) Regional Cooperation:

West African Gas Pipeline
Cross-border security
Regional refining capacity
Market integration efforts

Environmental Politics:

a) Key Issues:

Gas flaring regulations
Environmental remediation
Climate change commitments
Carbon emission reduction

b) Community Relations:

Social license to operate
Impact assessments
Compensation mechanisms
Development agreements

Future Challenges and Opportunities:

a) Energy Transition:

Renewable energy integration
Gas monetization
Carbon pricing
Clean technology adoption

b) Industry Sustainability:

Investment attraction
Infrastructure development
Skill development
Technology adoption

The politics of Nigeria’s oil sector remains complex and multifaceted, with various stakeholders pursuing different agendas. The successful implementation of reforms often depends on balancing these competing interests while ensuring the sector’s contribution to national development.

In development

Key Areas of Diaspora’s Impact on the African Economy

November 29, 2024 No Comments

African Diasporas are Africans who are living in various parts of the world. Diasporas help the African economy extensively in various ways. While the diaspora’s influence spans multiple sectors, several areas stand out. In this blog post, we will explore the key areas that significantly receive diaspora support

Technology and Innovation:

The tech industry in Africa has seen significant contributions from diaspora entrepreneurs and investors. Initiatives like “Silicon Valley Meets Africa” bridge gaps between African tech ecosystems and global hubs. Many successful African startups have benefitted from diaspora funding, expertise, and access to international markets.

Healthcare:

Diaspora health professionals contribute immensely to strengthening Africa’s healthcare systems. They support local clinics, offer training to medical personnel, and provide remote healthcare services through telemedicine. Many have also established healthcare facilities and initiatives aimed at addressing critical gaps in medical access and quality.

Education:

Education remains a key focus for the diaspora, with investments in schools, scholarships, and educational technology. By introducing international teaching methodologies and supporting research, the diaspora helps improve education quality and connect African institutions to global networks.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite their significant contributions, the diaspora faces challenges that hinder their engagement, including bureaucratic red tape, limited access to reliable investment information, and complex regulatory environments.

To maximize the diaspora’s potential, African governments can:

Streamline processes for diaspora involvement in investments and development projects.
Increase transparency in regulatory and financial frameworks.
Create platforms that facilitate collaboration between diaspora communities and local stakeholders.

By fostering stronger ties and addressing existing barriers, African nations can harness this powerful network to unlock even greater opportunities for development and progress.

Also, read Key Areas of Diaspora’s Impact on the African Economy

In development

The Role of the African Diaspora in Africa’s Economic Development

November 29, 2024 No Comments

The African diaspora, a global community of individuals of African origin residing outside the continent, represents a dynamic and influential force in Africa’s economic advancement. Comprising professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders with expertise across various fields, the diaspora holds immense potential to shape Africa’s growth trajectory.

Contributions of the African Diaspora to Africa’s Economy

The African diaspora, estimated to number over 140 million worldwide, spans regions such as North America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. This diverse community contributes to Africa’s development in numerous impactful ways:

Remittances:

Each year, the diaspora sends billions of dollars back to Africa, significantly boosting household incomes and local economies. In 2022, remittances to sub-Saharan Africa alone exceeded $50 billion. These funds help families afford education, access healthcare, and reduce poverty, thereby strengthening economic stability at the grassroots level.

Investment and Entrepreneurship:

Beyond remittances, members of the diaspora actively invest in African economies, launching businesses in sectors like technology, real estate, agriculture, and renewable energy. This trend, often referred to as “diaspora direct investment,” creates jobs, brings in capital, and fosters innovation. By partnering with local businesses, the diaspora introduces international best practices and facilitates sustainable development.

Skills Transfer and Capacity Building:

The diaspora possesses a wealth of expertise in areas like healthcare, technology, finance, and education. Through mentorship programs, training initiatives, and partnerships with African institutions, they help equip the continent’s workforce with skills needed to compete in the global economy. Collaborative efforts between diaspora professionals and African universities or startups are particularly transformative, fostering knowledge exchange and innovation.

Trade and Market Access:

Serving as cultural and economic ambassadors, diaspora communities play a pivotal role in connecting African products and businesses to global markets. They facilitate trade partnerships, promote exports, and attract foreign investors. Moreover, they champion African cultural products such as music, fashion, and art on the global stage, enhancing Africa’s visibility and economic opportunities.

The African diaspora is a vital partner in Africa’s journey toward economic prosperity. Their remittances, investments, skills, and advocacy play a transformative role in driving growth and innovation.

Also, read The Role of the African Diaspora in Africa’s Economic Development

In education

Youth Education in Africa: New Strategies for Learning and Innovation

November 29, 2024 No Comments

With Africa’s youth population steadily increasing, the continent faces a significant challenge in delivering education that aligns with the demands of a rapidly changing global landscape. With approximately 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, the current education system often struggles to meet the needs of modern learners. This gap highlights the urgency of providing high-quality education that equips young Africans with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s world.

The State of Education in Africa

Education systems across Africa vary, but many countries face shared challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of qualified teachers, inadequate infrastructure, and limited resources. According to UNESCO’s 2023 estimates, sub-Saharan Africa is home to approximately 30 million out-of-school children, with many more unable to achieve basic literacy and numeracy. These issues underscore the untapped potential of Africa’s youth and its impact on the continent’s development.

Leveraging Technology for Education

Digital tools have the potential to revolutionize education in Africa, breaking barriers related to cost, distance, and infrastructure.

E-Learning Platforms:
Platforms like Eneza Education, Ubongo, Edmodo, and UBEC Brain Friend are reshaping education by offering accessible online courses, video tutorials, and interactive quizzes. These platforms often cater to local needs, providing content in native languages and aligning with national curricula.

Mobile Learning:
With one of the fastest-growing mobile phone markets globally, Africa is uniquely positioned to adopt mobile learning solutions. Initiatives like BRCK’s Kio Kit provide internet-enabled devices with preloaded educational content that can function without continuous internet access. By leveraging mobile technology, students in rural and underserved areas can access quality learning materials and opportunities that were previously unavailable.

AI and Personalized Learning:
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming education by creating tailored learning experiences. AI tools adapt to individual students’ learning styles and paces, providing immediate feedback and support. For example, Kenya’s M-Shule employs AI-powered SMS tutoring to deliver personalized lessons, making education accessible even on basic mobile phones. Embracing AI can significantly enhance the African education system’s efficiency and inclusivity.

Practical Skills Training for Workforce Readiness

To bridge the gap between education and employment, integrating hands-on training and skill acquisition programs into the education system is critical.

Vocational and Technical Training:
Expanding technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions equip youth with practical skills for industries like manufacturing, construction, and engineering. Countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa are actively investing in TVET to meet the growing demand for skilled labour.

Entrepreneurship Education:
Entrepreneurial training is emerging as a solution to unemployment, teaching young Africans how to start and manage businesses. This includes lessons in business planning, financial literacy, and marketing, empowering youth to create job opportunities for themselves and others.

STEM Education:
Education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is vital for preparing Africa’s youth for technological innovation and growth. Programs like Ghana’s STEMbees and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) focus on building skills in coding, robotics, and engineering, with an emphasis on encouraging young women to enter these fields. Strengthening STEM education lays the groundwork for a tech-savvy workforce that can drive Africa’s digital transformation.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite these innovative approaches, Africa’s education sector faces persistent hurdles such as limited funding, unreliable internet connectivity, and a lack of trained teachers and digital devices. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts:

Public-Private Partnerships: Governments, private companies, and NGOs can join forces to scale successful education models, provide funding, and train educators.
Policy Reforms: Integrating digital literacy and new learning methods into school curricula is essential to support innovative education.
Technology Investments: Partnerships with tech companies can provide affordable digital solutions for schools, ensuring that students and teachers have access to modern tools.

A Promising Future

The future of youth education in Africa holds great promise. By adopting innovative learning models and nurturing creativity, the continent is paving the way for a generation of leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. These empowered young Africans will be equipped to tackle challenges, seize opportunities, and drive sustainable development across the continent.

In development

African BRICS Alliance and Future Africa

November 29, 2024 No Comments

In recent years, African nations have been increasingly seeking partnerships that align with their aspirations for economic and political transformation towards sustainable development. The relationship between Africa and the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) is growing, highlighting a trend where African countries are eyeing an alliance that could redefine the continent’s economic and political trajectory. But what does this alliance mean for Africa, and how could it reshape the continent’s future?

The Emergence of a Strategic Alliance

BRICS is one of the most significant economic alliances globally, representing nearly half of the world’s population and a substantial share of global GDP. Initially seen as an alternative to Western-dominated institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, BRICS offers a development path that appeals to many African nations. South Africa’s membership in BRICS has already laid the groundwork for African representation within the bloc, and other African countries are increasingly interested in joining or strengthening their ties with BRICS to collaborate on shared development goals.

Economic Opportunities and Trade Expansion

A deeper integration of African nations with BRICS could boost trade and investment opportunities across the continent. Key BRICS members such as China, India, and Brazil have already developed strong trade relationships with African countries, particularly in sectors like infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and natural resources. An African BRICS alliance could create new investment structures for critical infrastructure projects, including railways, ports, and energy systems key drivers of economic growth and development.

Technological and Educational Collaboration

One of the most promising aspects of an African-BRICS alliance is the potential for technological and educational partnerships. Countries like China and India are leaders in fields such as telecommunications, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure, all of which could aid in accelerating technological development across Africa. Collaboration in these areas could significantly boost digital literacy, skill-building, and job creation across the continent.

Additionally, BRICS nations have demonstrated strong models in education and skills training, which could help improve African educational systems and enhance research capabilities.

Strengthening Africa’s Voice in Global Governance

The collective power of BRICS nations has consistently pushed for reform in global governance systems, advocating for a multipolar world where emerging economies have a more substantial role. For African nations, being part of a BRICS alliance provides a platform to influence international policies and have a stronger voice in global institutions such as the United Nations. This influence could be crucial in addressing issues like global inequality and climate justice—matters that disproportionately affect Africa.

Currency Independence and Financial Stability

A persistent challenge in Africa is currency instability and the lack of control over monetary systems, which often undermine economic growth. An African BRICS alliance could help address this by working towards reforming African financial mechanisms to reduce reliance on the dollar and euro, which currently dominate trade and investment in Africa. BRICS has already proposed the creation of a common BRICS currency and the development of alternatives to traditional banking systems, such as the New Development Bank. Such financial independence could significantly enhance Africa’s stability and long-term growth.

Challenges to the African BRICS Alliance

Despite the potential benefits, several challenges must be considered. African countries are politically diverse and have varying economic structures and strategic priorities, which could form a unified alliance with the BRICS complex. There is also the risk of dependency African leaders must ensure that their partnerships with BRICS are mutually beneficial and not replicate the unequal power dynamics seen in past colonial and neo-colonial relationships.

A Transformative Opportunity

Deepening the Africa-BRICS alliance has the potential to be transformative. It could stimulate economic growth, technological advancement, and political empowerment in Africa. With the support of a BRICS partnership, Africa’s future could be one of shared growth, resilience, and a renewed voice in shaping a more equitable world.

also read, Brics and its implications for the-Africa continent

In development

The AES-ECOWAS Relationship and Africa’s Diplomatic Future

November 29, 2024 No Comments

The West African region is a focal point of African democracy, economic development, and security transformation as one of the continent’s most organised regions. West Africa has a community organisation called the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). In recent years, the Sahel region has faced a series of challenges, including protests, coups, insecurity, and economic instability, which led to the formation of a new alliance named the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between these two organisations and their influence on the future of African diplomatic relations.

Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)

ECOWAS is a West African community organisation established in 1975 to promote cooperation and economic integration among West African countries. The primary aim of ECOWAS is to establish an economic union and enhance economic stability and cooperation among the 15 member states in the West African region. However, its role has extended to include promoting political stability and conflict resolution. ECOWAS has been actively involved in restoring democracy and resolving conflicts in various West African countries, such as Niger, Gabon, and Côte d’Ivoire.

The Formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)

AES was created to address growing security challenges, economic difficulties, and political instability in the Sahel region. AES represents the governments of three countries—Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—that have recently experienced military coups. This alliance is a step towards rejecting Western influence and prioritising regional cooperation among these countries’ military leadership while working to eradicate security issues in the region.

AES members believe that African organisations like ECOWAS are increasingly disconnected from the realities faced by African citizens.

Influence on the Future of African Diplomatic Relations

The emergence of AES and its relationship with ECOWAS will significantly impact the future of African diplomatic relations, particularly in the West African region. While AES advocates for reduced Western influence, ECOWAS promotes engagement with the West through democracy and cooperation. Below are some ways African diplomacy could be affected by the existence of both ECOWAS and AES in the Sahel region.

Regional Cooperation

The formation of AES introduces a fragmentation from the traditional framework of West African regional cooperation. As AES gains influence, ECOWAS’s ability to shape regional activities may diminish, which could encourage other African regions to diverge from ECOWAS agendas. This division could weaken joint efforts to address issues such as insecurity, migration, and economic development.

Geopolitical Alliances

The creation of AES may foster new avenues for geopolitical collaboration within Africa and with other global powers. While Western countries have historically held significant influence in Africa, AES’s rise may attract attention from other powers like China, which seeks to expand its economic and diplomatic influence on the continent. This shift could lead to alternative geopolitical relationships, moving away from traditional African-Western partnerships.

Challenges to African Unity

The establishment of AES in West Africa introduces the possibility of divided influence over decision-making and policy formation within the region. Initially, ECOWAS member states were entitled to free movement and visa-free travel, but AES members may now find themselves isolated from such agreements, which could harm unity among the countries in the region. This could hinder Africa’s overall development and disrupt diplomatic cohesion.

In democracy

Ending Bad Governance: Preventing Future Gen-Z Protests in Nigeria

November 29, 2024 No Comments

The year 2024 has highlighted new challenges in Nigeria’s leadership, driving the attention of young Nigerians to street protests aimed at government change and social reform. Reflecting on the #EndSARS protests of 2020, Nigerians have learned to speak out, demanding transparency, accountability, and reform in governance. This blog post explores the causes of recent protests and possible ways to prevent future unrest in Nigeria.

Causes of the End-Bad-Governance Protests in Nigeria

Economic Constraints and Inflation

A major factor behind anti-government protests in Nigeria is economic hardship. Inflation soared following the removal of fuel subsidies, which sharply increased transport and production costs, making life unbearable for many. This policy shift has been criticised for exacerbating economic difficulties across the country.

Lack of Job Opportunities and Poverty

Current economic policies have led to business closures, increasing unemployment and making it difficult for young Nigerians to secure jobs. This issue is particularly severe in northern Nigeria, where poverty, food insecurity, and high child malnutrition rates persist.

Government Response and Public Perception

The government’s response to economic instability and insecurity is seen by many as inadequate, failing to reflect the daily struggles of ordinary Nigerians. President Tinubu’s recent address did not convince Nigerians that his administration is committed to improving the economic situation.

How to Avoid Future Gen-Z Protests in Nigeria

Accountability and Transparency in Governance

A significant cause of youth protests is a lack of transparency and accountability. Corruption and the misuse of public resources have disillusioned young Nigerians. To regain their trust, the government must ensure greater transparency in how public funds are managed, which would help restore credibility among Gen-Z and other young Nigerians.

Job Opportunities and Youth Economic Empowerment

High youth unemployment remains a pressing issue. Nearly 60% of Nigeria’s population is under 25, many of whom struggle to find meaningful employment. Creating job opportunities and supporting youth economic empowerment would help prevent future Gen-Z protests.

Improving Education Standards and Quality

Nigeria’s education system urgently needs reform. Schools often lack basic resources and infrastructure to deliver quality education, leading to frustration among young Nigerians. Improving educational quality and accessibility would help reduce youth discontent.

Nigeria’s youth are eager to participate in decision-making and want their voices included in policy discussions. To prevent future protests, the government must learn from past movements and take meaningful steps to address the root causes of youth dissatisfaction.

Also, read Gen-Z protest in Kenya and its influence on African countries and Protests in African Countries: Causes and Solutions for more related information