Prime
Africa’s drive for democracy: Will it live up to its promise?
Eunice Musiime
What you need to know:
The benefits of equal participation of women in political leadership can’t be over emphasised.
I recently had the privilege of attending the Africa Drive for Democracy that was held from July 17 to 21 in Arusha, Tanzania; a powerful initiative dedicated to advancing democracy on the African continent in a way that resonates with the unique needs, values, and cultural context of its people. The initiative is led by the Centre for Strategic Litigation based in Zanzibar, MS-TCDC based in Tanzania and the Institute for Strategic Studies. It was a great opportunity to be part of the conversations that were geared towards critically reflecting on contemporary and future challenges affecting the promise of democracy on the continent.
With over 21 coups recorded in the last eight years, according to the International Centre for Investigative Reporting, the road to democracy is proving much more difficult for the African continent. The July 26 seizure of power in Niger added to the swathe of military coups in Africa and most recently in Sudan, Mali, Guinea, Chad, and Burkina Faso which calls into question the future of democracy in Africa. This last decade has made it clear that these instabilities are not isolated incidents in individual countries that threaten to undermine the stability and progress of the affected countries. They highlight the urgent need for stronger democratic systems, deeper respect for the rule of law, and enhanced accountability mechanisms across the continent.
The words of Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania, capture this rallying call better when she points out that, “The road to democracy in Africa may be challenging, but there is no alternative to an inclusive and accountable governance system.”
Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), was privileged to lead a session on women’s political leadership as a critical component of inclusive democracy. As a feminist-Pan-African leadership development organisation, AMwA has been at the forefront of calling attention to the need to employ an intersectional approach to advancing liberties and freedoms. What better way than to foster equal representation of women in decision-making and political processes. The benefits of equal participation of women in political leadership can’t be over emphasised.
There is clear evidence that when there is a greater proportion of women in Parliament, they promote and pass more legislation supporting women’s rights across societies.
The former President of Tanzania, Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, is right on point with his observation that, “It is important for every society to find ways of deliberately involving youth and women, citing the role his part Chama Cha Mapinduzi played in getting him into leadership as a youth wing member.”
On the surface of the political landscape in Africa, there is sometimes a shallow portrayal of an Africa that has made remarkable strides in the pursuit of democracy, with an increasing number of countries embracing democratic principles, holding regular elections, and establishing stronger institutions.
The continent is not short of examples of countries that have had a significant shift from the era of autocratic rule that plagued the continent.
However, what was initially diagnosed as skirmishes that are threatening to erode the gains made through the third wave of democratisation is proving to be part of a much deeper polycrisis on the African continent. The Mo Ibrahim Index on African governance notes that despite the progress made in establishing multiparty democracy and democratic values, there are still many obstacles to genuine political participation due to legal restrictions and economic burdens.
The Africa Drive for Democracy served as a clarion call to ensure that democracy on the continent is sustainable, inclusive, and firmly rooted in African values. Without doubt this call must be met with unity and collaboration. It is essential for African nations, regional organisations, civil society groups, and citizens to work together harmoniously, sharing best practices, experiences, and resources.
Encouraging dialogue, facilitating peer learning, and promoting cooperation at the regional and continental levels can accelerate the democratisation process across Africa while inspiring and supporting the countries that face challenges.
Ms Eunice Musiime is the Executive Director, Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA)
