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 leadership

WHAT AWAITS AFRICA ( AND NIGERIA IN PARTICULAR ), IN ANOTHER DONALD TRUMP PRESIDENCY.

December 8, 2024 No Comments

We in African Economic Congress congratulate Mr Donald Trump on his 2nd term election as the President of the United States of America.

It may be too early in the day to predict what the the Trump presidency holds for Africa and Nigeria in particular. However by extrapolating from his 1st term in office (2016 – 2020) we’ll analyze this, based on historical patterns from Trump’s previous presidency, stated policy positions, and broader trends, while acknowledging the inherent uncertainty in such predictions. It’s a mixed bag for the African continent.

Here’s a detailed analysis of potential implications:

TRADE RELATIONS

Potential return to protectionist policies similar to 2016-2020
Possible review/renegotiation of African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)
The African Growth and Opportunity Act, which currently runs until 2025, could face significant changes or uncertainty under a new Trump administration
Based on Trump’s previous approach, potential changes might include:
a. Stricter eligibility requirements focusing on reciprocal trade benefits
b. More frequent reviews of country eligibility
c. Demands for better market access for US products in African countries
d. Possible reduction in the number of products eligible for duty-free access
e. Additional conditions tied to countering Chinese influence in Africa
f. Country-specific restrictions based on trade deficits with the US
Nigeria might face increased scrutiny on trade imbalances
g. Risk of tariffs on African exports to protect US industries

IMMIGRATION

Likely stricter visa policies affecting African nations
Possible expansion of travel restrictions
Nigeria could face enhanced vetting given its large population and previous inclusion in travel restrictions
Potential reduction in diversity visa program benefiting African immigrants

FOREIGN AID AND DEVELOPMENT

Possible cuts to foreign aid programs in Africa
Reduced funding for health initiatives like PEPFAR. The United States President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR), saves lives, prevents HIV infections, and accelerates progress toward achieving HIV/AIDS pandemic control in more than 50 countries around the globe.
More transactional approach to development assistance.
a. “America First” Principle
Aid would likely be more explicitly tied to direct US interests
Support might depend on African nations’ alignment with US positions on global issues
Less focus on long-term development goals, more on immediate US benefits

b. Quid Pro Quo Framework

Aid could be contingent on specific actions by recipient countries
Examples might include:
Voting with US positions at the UN
Supporting US security initiatives
Providing preferential treatment to US businesses
Reducing economic ties with China

c. Business-Style Negotiations

Development assistance might be treated more like business deals
Focus on measurable returns on investment
Preference for projects that directly benefit US companies or interests
Less emphasis on traditional development metrics like poverty reduction

d. Short-Term Deliverables

Preference for projects with immediate, visible results
Less interest in long-term capacity building
Focus on infrastructure projects with clear US business involvement
Reduced support for social development programs

e. Bilateral Over Multilateral

Preference for direct country-to-country agreements
Reduced support for multilateral development institutions
More direct negotiation of terms and conditions
Greater emphasis on visible “wins” for both sides
Greater emphasis on countering Chinese influence rather than development

SECURITY COOPERATION

Continued but potentially reduced counter-terrorism support
More focus on military cooperation tied to specific US interests
Nigeria might maintain security partnership due to strategic importance
Possible reduction in peacekeeping support

Investment and Business

Emphasis on private sector engagement over government aid
Potential opportunities through proper Africa initiative
More bilateral deals rather than multilateral frameworks
Focus on extractive industries and infrastructure with US interests

Diplomatic Relations

More direct and transactional diplomatic approach
Reduced engagement with multilateral African institutions
Bilateral relationships prioritized over regional approach
Possible tension over human rights and governance issues

Climate Change Initiatives

Likely reduction in climate-related support and funding
Potential impact on green energy projects in Africa
Possible withdrawal from climate commitments affecting African nations
Nigeria’s oil sector might see short-term benefits from relaxed environmental policies

Nigeria-Specific Implications

Continued recognition of Nigeria’s regional importance
Focus on security cooperation and anti-terrorism
Possible pressure on governance and corruption issues
Trade relations might face more scrutiny
Oil sector dynamics could be significantly affected

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 politics

Protests in African Countries: Causes and Solutions

November 29, 2024 No Comments

Protest is increasingly becoming a defining feature of the political landscape across much of Africa. From Sudan to Ethiopia, citizens are mobilizing in response to a blend of socio-economic challenges, political disenfranchisement, and a shared desire for change. Understanding the root causes behind these protests is crucial to developing effective solutions that can foster political stability and progress on the continent.

Causes of Protests in Africa

Economic Hardship

Economic hardship is a major driver of protests across Africa. In countries like Nigeria and Sudan, citizens are grappling with economic crises driven by factors such as corruption, mismanagement of public resources, and the lingering effects of global disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic. When citizens’ basic needs remain unmet, protests become an outlet for expressing frustration. Economic hardship in Africa remains one of the primary causes of public dissent.

Political Oppression

In many African countries, citizens face political oppression, where they are denied the right to voice their opinions freely. Young people, in particular, often experience limited political engagement. This exclusion has led to mass protests, as seen in countries like Ethiopia and Zimbabwe, where youth are calling for democratic reforms and greater inclusion in the political process.

Ethnic and Social Inequality

Ethnic and social divides are also significant drivers of protest in Africa. Discrimination based on ethnicity or social class can lead to feelings of exclusion and marginalization. For instance, in Burkina Faso, protests were sparked by government policies perceived to favour certain ethnic groups over others, amplifying tensions.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental issues, such as degradation and climate change, have become increasingly contentious. Protests often arise when communities observe that their natural resources are being exploited unsustainably, as seen in Nigeria, where the mining and extraction of metals has led to local resistance.

Potential Solutions to Curb Protests in African Countries

Inclusive Governance

To reduce the frequency of protests, African governments must prioritize inclusive governance. Ensuring that all voices are heard within the political sphere can foster trust and strengthen relationships between governments and citizens. Allowing space for open dialogue and active participation is essential to achieving political stability.

Economic Reform

Addressing economic hardship requires significant reforms. African governments should work towards creating sustainable economic structures, generating employment opportunities, providing quality education, and investing in infrastructure. A stable economy can act as a buffer against future unrest and enhance public trust in government.

Community Involvement and Education

Engaging communities in civic education can empower citizens to contribute positively to societal development. Teaching people about their rights and the value of civic participation can encourage constructive change, raise awareness of social issues, and foster greater involvement in political processes.

Pro-People Policies

Developing pro-people policies is essential in bridging the gap between government initiatives and public needs. These policies should prioritize the welfare of citizens by focusing on affordable healthcare, accessible education, and social safety nets for the most vulnerable. Pro-people policies can create a foundation of trust, helping citizens feel that the government is genuinely invested in their well-being, which may reduce the propensity for protest.

Strengthening Institutions

Building stronger institutions is key to a sustainable and peaceful future. Institutions that are transparent, accountable, and capable of upholding the rule of law provide a robust framework that citizens can rely on. When institutions operate independently and are not subject to political interference, they help prevent abuses of power and ensure that governance is effective and fair. Strengthening institutions can improve the administration of justice, enhance public services, and build trust between governments and their citizens.

Protests in African countries stem from various economic, political, and social challenges. Addressing these issues proactively through inclusive governance, economic reforms, pro-people policies, community engagement, and stronger institutions can help mitigate future unrest and contribute to a more stable and prosperous continent.

Also, read Gen-Z protest in Kenya and its influence on African countries and Ending Bad Governance: Preventing Future Gen-Z Protests in Nigeria for more related information

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

In politics

Gen-Z Protest in Kenya and Its Influence on African Countries

November 29, 2024 No Comments

In 2024, Kenya witnessed a powerful Gen-Z protest aimed at addressing social, economic, and political issues in the country. This protest targeted deep-seated challenges, such as the rising cost of living, spurred by the 2024 Kenyan financial bill, and called for transparency and accountability in governance. The Kenyan Gen-Z protest has had an influential ripple effect across various African nations, including Nigeria. In this blog post, we explore the roots of the Kenyan Gen-Z protest and its impact on other African countries.

Overview of the Kenyan Gen-Z Protest

Kenya’s Gen-Z generation those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s is considered highly adept at using digital technology. With their strong skills in leveraging smart devices and social media platforms, Gen-Z activists mobilised and amplified their voices effectively through tools like TikTok, Instagram, and X. These platforms played a pivotal role in the 2024 protests, enabling them to share their activities with the world efficiently.

A major demand of the Gen-Z protesters was the cancellation of the new financial bill submitted to the Kenyan House of Assembly by President Ruto in 2024. Young activists opposed the bill and called for increased transparency and accountability in governance. Well-informed and globally connected, these protesters recognised the power of mass mobilisation in pressuring the government to address urgent issues. As their message gained traction, it began to resonate beyond Kenya, inspiring other African nations facing similar challenges.

The Influence of the Kenyan Gen-Z Protest on African Countries

The Kenyan Gen-Z protests have captured the attention of young people across Africa, inspiring youth in other countries to take action. The movement highlighted the critical role of youth engagement in addressing national issues. Since the Gen-Z protests in Kenya, countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, and Sudan have witnessed similar youth-led protests demanding policy reforms, transparency, and increased youth involvement in politics. Here are some of the key reasons why the Kenyan Gen-Z protests resonated with African youth:

Social Media Solidarity Across Borders

Social media transcends borders, fostering solidarity among young people across nations. Kenyan protesters received immense support from youth activists in countries like Nigeria and Ghana, with support and advocacy shared through social media platforms. The success of the Kenyan protests has inspired Nigerian youths, for example, to adopt similar approaches to advocate for change in their own country, as seen in the recent #EndBadGovernance protest led by Gen-Z activists.

Paving the Way for Policy and Governance Reform

The Kenyan Gen-Z protests engaged young people across Africa and highlighted the impact of youth participation in tackling national issues. One of the core grievances of Kenyan Gen-Z activists was the lack of youth inclusion in politics and policy-making. In response, leaders in some African countries have begun to increase youth engagement in political and policy formulation processes to avoid similar protests in their nations.

Challenging Traditional Power Structures

In many African countries, politics is dominated by the older generation, with youth often excluded from decision-making roles. The Kenyan Gen-Z protest has emboldened young people in countries like Zimbabwe and Uganda, where youth have traditionally been isolated from political influence. Inspired by the Kenyan movement, these youths are pushing to establish avenues that will allow them to play a more active role in sharing power and shaping the future of their countries.

The Gen-Z protests in Kenya signify a generational awakening that is likely to reshape the future of governance in Africa. These movements underscore that young Africans are not passive spectators but are determined agents of change, advocating for better governance, social justice, and economic opportunity. The influence of these protests extends beyond Kenya’s borders, inspiring youth across the continent to demand a brighter future.

Also, read Ending Bad Governance: Preventing Future Gen-Z Protests in Nigeria and Protests in African Countries: Causes and Solutions for more related information

In economy

BRICS AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR THE AFRICA CONTINENT

November 10, 2024 No Comments

BRICS is an economic and political alliance originally consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (which joined in 2010). As of January 1, 2024, the group expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, making it BRICS+.

The establishment of BRICS has several key aims:

Economic Rebalancing

– Creating an alternative to Western-dominated global financial systems

– Reducing dependency on the US dollar for international trade

– Establishing new development financing mechanisms through the New Development Bank

– Promoting trade in local currencies between member states

Geopolitical Influence

– Building a counterweight to US/Western dominance in global affairs

– Creating a platform for emerging powers to coordinate positions on global issues

– Strengthening South-South cooperation

– Advocating for reform of international institutions like the UN Security Council, IMF, and World Bank

Development Cooperation

– Sharing development experiences and best practices

– Promoting technology transfer between member states

– Supporting infrastructure development in developing countries

– Fostering cooperation in areas like agriculture, energy, and digital technology

Strategic Autonomy

– Reducing vulnerability to Western economic sanctions

– Creating independent payment systems and financial infrastructure

– Developing alternative supply chains

– Building strategic partnerships outside Western alliances

Resource Security

– Coordinating access to strategic resources

– Ensuring energy security through cooperation

– Developing joint approaches to food security

– Sharing technology and expertise in resource extraction

Political Reform

– Pushing for democratization of international relations

– Advocating for a multipolar world order

– Reforming global governance structures

– Increasing representation of developing nations in global decision-making

Economic Implications for Africa:

Trade and Investment

– Increased access to alternative sources of development financing through the New Development Bank (BRICS Bank)

– Growing trade relationships, particularly with China and India

– Investment in infrastructure projects across the continent

– Reduced dependency on Western-dominated financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank

Market Access

– Larger market opportunities for African exports

– Potential for technology transfer and industrial cooperation

– Enhanced regional integration through trade corridors

Political Implications:

Global South Representation

– Strengthened voice for developing nations in global governance

– Alternative diplomatic channels outside Western-dominated institutions

– Platform for advocating African interests in international forums

Multipolarity

– Reduced Western influence in Africa

– Increased bargaining power in international negotiations

– Potential for balancing relationships between East and West

Challenges and Concerns:

Economic

– Risk of new forms of economic dependency, particularly on China

– Potential for unequal trade relationships

– Competition with local industries from BRICS imports

Political

– Possible involvement in geopolitical tensions between BRICS members and Western powers

– Internal conflicts of interest among BRICS members

– Questions about governance standards and conditionality of BRICS investments.

Also, read African BRICS Alliance and the Future of Africa

In education

The AFRICA SCHOOL OF GOVERNANCE (ASG) KIGALI RWANDA

October 31, 2024 No Comments

The African Leadership University, Rwanda recently set up the Africa School of Governance, while appointing Nigeria’s Prof Kingsley Chiedu Moghalu, as its inaugural President.

The ASG will be a graduate institution designed to offer world-class public policy education, research, and engagement programs.

To What Extent Will The ASG Solve Africa’s Leadership Deficit?

The African Leadership University (ALU) School of Governance in Kigali represents an innovative approach to developing African leadership, but its impact on the continent’s leadership deficit should be evaluated realistically.

Potential Strengths:

Location: Being based in Rwanda provides exposure to one of Africa’s most rapidly transforming countries and its governance models
Pan-African approach: Bringing together students from across the continent can foster continental networks and shared learning
Practical focus: The curriculum reportedly emphasizes real-world leadership challenges and solutions specific to African contexts
Connection to private sector: ALU’s broader network includes business leaders and entrepreneurs, potentially bridging public-private sector gaps

Limitations in Addressing the Leadership Deficit:

Scale: Even with excellent programs, one institution can only train a limited number of leaders relative to the continent’s needs
Structural challenges: Leadership deficits in Africa often stem from deeper systemic issues that education alone cannot fully address:

– Entrenched political systems

– Corruption networks

– Constitutional challenges

– Historical legacies

Implementation gap: There’s often a significant distance between leadership training and the ability to implement reforms within existing systems
Resource constraints: The high-quality education model may not be easily scalable across the continent due to cost and infrastructure needs

What would make the impact more significant?

– Creating networks of similar institutions across the continent

– Partnering with existing government training programs

– Developing distance learning capabilities to reach more potential leaders

– Building stronger links with current leadership structures for practical implementation.

How far can this school reorientate leadership in Africa without corresponding institutional reforms?

That’s a crucial question that gets to the heart of the challenge. Let me analyze this:

Limitations Without Institutional Reform:

Individual vs. System Dynamics

– Even well-trained leaders can be constrained by dysfunctional institutions

– Historical examples show that isolated reform champions often get frustrated or co-opted by existing systems

– The “big man” syndrome in African politics often supersedes institutional processes

Structural Constraints

– Weak checks and balances

– Centralized power structures

– Informal parallel power networks

– Neo-patrimonial systems where personal relationships override formal structures

– Entrenched interest groups resistant to change

Economic Realities

– Limited state resources

– High dependency on external funding

– Persistent poverty creating vulnerability to patronage politics

– Economic structures that incentivize extraction over development

What The School Can Achieve:

Create Critical Mass

– Build networks of reform-minded leaders

– Develop shared vision and approaches

– Create peer support systems

Technical Capacity

– Improve policy design capabilities

– Enhance public administration skills

– Strengthen analytical capacity

Change Mindsets

– Challenge existing leadership paradigms

– Promote ethical leadership principles

– Foster innovation in governance

But for Real Impact:

The school needs to:

– Focus on both technical and political economy skills

– Teach how to navigate and gradually transform broken systems

– Build coalition-building skills

– Develop strategies for incremental institutional change

Parallel efforts needed:

– Civil society strengthening

– Media independence

– Judicial reforms

– Electora

In democracy

Recent successful African Military coup and their causes

September 30, 2024 No Comments

In recent years, Africa has witnessed a number of military coups in various countries, posing a threat to the continent’s democratic stability. The frequent occurrence of coups is undermining political development and highlighting the urgent need for democratic reform to prevent future incidents. In this blog post, we will examine some recent successful coups in Africa and their causes.

Recent Successful Military Coups in Africa

Several African nations have experienced coups over the past few years, signalling a worrying trend. Below are some of the most notable cases:

Mali (2020 and 2021):

On 18th August 2020, a group of military officers, led by Colonel Assimi Goïta, ousted Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta. Just a year later, in May 2021, another coup occurred under the leadership of Colonel Goïta, who had become the central figure of both coups. He effectively seized power again after the transitional president and prime minister were detained.

Causes of the Mali coups: The 2020 coup was triggered by mass protests that began on 5th June 2020, with citizens expressing frustration over alleged corruption, economic hardship, and the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021 coup was the result of internal tensions within the transitional government, further destabilising Mali’s political landscape.

Guinea (2021):

On 5th September 2021, Colonel Mamady Doumbouya led a military coup that removed President Alpha Condé from office. This coup was one of the swiftest and least violent in Guinea’s history, with very few casualties reported during the process.

Causes of the Guinea coup: The coup was a direct result of public discontent with President Condé’s decision to amend the constitution in 2020 to allow him to run for a controversial third term. The increasing concentration of power in the presidency and heightened government spending also fuelled disillusionment among the population, ultimately leading to the coup.

Sudan (2021):

Sudan experienced a military coup on 25th October 2021, despite the country’s fragile democratic transition that began after the removal of long-time leader Omar al-Bashir in 2019. The coup saw military leaders dissolve the transitional government and detain civilian officials, including Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok.

Causes of the Sudan coup: The coup was driven by power struggles between the civilian and military factions of the transitional government. Widespread economic challenges and protests added to the instability, with the military ultimately taking control, claiming they were safeguarding the country’s future.

Niger (2023):

In July 2023, Niger saw its democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, ousted by military officers in a coup that shocked the West African region. The coup was met with strong international condemnation and raised concerns about the impact on regional stability.

Causes of the Niger coup: The coup in Niger was attributed to growing dissatisfaction within the military and increasing frustrations over the government’s handling of security challenges, particularly in relation to Islamist insurgencies in the Sahel region. The military leaders also cited economic mismanagement and governance failures as reasons for their intervention.

The series of military coups in Africa over the past few years is raising serious questions about the continent’s democratic stability and political future. These coups reflect deep-rooted political, economic, and governance challenges that need urgent attention to prevent further deterioration of Africa’s political systems.

For more in-depth analysis on African military coups, read more blogs on Coup epidemic in Afrca: Causes and Solution and coup epidemic in Africa and the future of African Democracy.