Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa)’s Post

Afrobarometer's inaugural flagship report shows while popular satisfaction with democracy is highly susceptible to economic, social and political performance, support for democracy is resilient against economic factors such as poverty and poor economic management. Instead, the evidence points to political factors, including rising corruption in local government, poor-quality elections, and a lack of presidential accountability, as factors that tend to undermine popular faith in democracy.  Nurturing support for democracy will therefore require strengthening integrity in local government and improved official accountability. #VoicesAfrica #AfrobarometerAt25 #Afrobarometer

On the whole, Africans are undeniably pro-democracy. 66% prefer a democratic system of governance 80% reject one-man rule 78% reject one-party rule 66% reject military rule According to Afrobarometer's latest report, Africa suffers not from a lack of demand but a “supply-side failure by African leaders to deliver”. During the last ten years "significant regression in democratic systems has been recorded across Africa, especially in the areas of rule of law, justice, and democratic elections". But this contrasts with Africans' commitment to be governed in a more democratic and transparent environment.

🌍💬 Democracy in Africa: an essential debate! 🗳️🌿 The conference on post-bipolar democracy in Africa highlighted the importance of elections, reforms and women's representation in politics. 🚀💪 Together, let's strengthen our democratic institutions for a better future in Africa! 🌟👏 #Democracy #Africa #Commitment #Reforms

With elections over, #SouthAfrica faces crucial governance choices: a coalition for economic growth with ANC-DA-IFP or one for political stability with ANC-MK. What lies ahead for the nation? Dive into the latest ISS Today article for an in-depth exploration: https://lnkd.in/gzvhcCff

If, like me, you are excited but unsure about South Africa's future, then you need to read this piece by Jakkie Cilliers. The article clearly outlines what to expect and how various decisions will impact ordinary citizens differently.

🌍 Strong democracies, strong partners: The Team Europe Democracy (TED) Initiative is committed to promoting democratic structures and #HumanRights worldwide. It was founded by the European Union, Germany, and 13 other EU member states. 💡 The TED network brings together over 100 organizations such as Oxfam, Free Press Unlimited, and German political foundations. We coordinate the network together with Enabel. 🌐 Countries like Jordan, Uganda, and Tanzania benefit from a wealth of expertise — EU member states also gain valuable insights for their own democratic processes. 📈 In Colombia, a TED mission supports election reforms and helps strengthen political participation. 👉 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/dg_NbQai #TeamEurope #Democracy #InternationalDayOfDemocracy Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ) European Parliament European Commission

Rethinking literacy for AI era! Thanks Diplomatic Courier for featuring my OpEd in the newsletter. Our complex digital world demands new forms of literacy. Media literacy, digital literacy, data literacy, social literacy, climate literacy, financial literacy, and health literacy are now essential for thriving in our rapidly evolving society. These skills empower both children and adults to navigate challenges now and in the future. Read the full article at https://lnkd.in/eN5jB_ec

Confidence in Ghana’s Democracy H.E. JDM faces significant pressure as he recognises that the failure of his administration could jeopardise the entire democratic framework in Ghana. This concern has been simmering over the years and has become more evident in the electoral outcomes of 2016 and 2024. In 2016, H.E. Nana Addo won the election with over 1 million votes, indicating that Ghanaians were seeking a departure from the status quo. Eight years later, JDM secured a substantial margin of nearly 2 million votes, further emphasising the populace's desire for change. However, the real threat lies in the approximately 2 million voters who abstained from casting their ballots, suggesting none of the 12 candidates offered any hope - a growing disillusionment with the current democratic system. The implications of such widespread disenchantment are profound and potentially catastrophic. To address these challenges, JDM must prioritise rebuilding public confidence in Ghana’s democracy. His administration should leverage existing support structures, such as the expertise of KY Amoako – The founder of Africa Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), a statesman and an international civil servant with a five-decade career in African development. KY’s roadmap "The Ghana Compact – Building the Future We Want Together," offers a strategic framework for JDM’s government. The Ghana Compact is a platform for Ghanaians to collaboratively define the nation’s vision and goals through a focus on four critical areas: 1. Political and Constitutional Reforms: Enhancing accountability among leaders, mitigating extreme political divisions, and ensuring that elections prioritise issues that matter to the electorate. 2. Fiscally Responsible Policies: Generating more domestic revenue for development initiatives and reducing reliance on external loans and aid. 3. Economic Transformation: Crafting a long-term vision for economic growth that remains consistent regardless of political transitions. 4. Human Well-being: Addressing gender disparities, improving health and education, fostering small businesses and job creation, and preparing for climate change. Recent widespread protests and allegations of electoral irregularities, fraud, and a lack of transparency and integrity underscore the urgency of these reforms. The sub-region provides numerous cautionary tales of the dangers associated with high levels of distrust in leadership. JDM’s success is not just vital for his party but for the broader democratic system in Ghana. All political actors should support him, as their collective futures are intertwined. A failure on JDM’s part would not only impact the NDC but the entire democratic system, affecting every Ghanaian. In conclusion, while my perspective may be subject to scrutiny, I fervently hope that JDM is surrounded by capable individuals who can help him restore faith in democracy as the pathway to a prosperous future for Ghana.

The reelection of Senator Njifenji (89) and Hon. Djibril (84), who are both elderly, has drawn criticism for the lack of diversity in Cameroon's political leadership. Cameroon is home to a vibrant and energetic population, filled with young individuals who are enthusiastic about having a say in the country's future. Nevertheless, the ongoing trend of older politicians assuming crucial positions of authority maintains a gap between the ruling class and the desires of the younger generation. https://lnkd.in/e8KSchri #CameroonPolitics #YouthInPolitics #GenerationalGap #PoliticalChange

For the first time in democratic South Africa's history, no single party holds an outright majority. This necessitates a more collaborative and coalition-based approach to governance, which could lead to more dynamic governance across sectors. Honestly, coalition talks and agreements will be messy and tricky, and the wrong choice of partnerships is concerning. #SAElections2024 #SAHasDecided #Governance #Democracy #SAFuture