African Think Tanks urge for peace, freedom, and prosperity as antidote to coups
African Think Tanks have emphasized that a peaceful, freer, and more prosperous Africa holds the key to countering the persistent challenge of coups on the continent. They argue that Africa’s progress has often been stymied by repressive governance, centralized power structures, extractive institutions, and leaders who prioritize personal enrichment over the welfare of their citizens.
Pre-existing Challenges
Long before the disruptions caused by Covid-19 and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Africa grappled with systemic issues that hindered the establishment of effective and inclusive societies. These issues resulted in many Africans enduring injustice, indignity, corruption, and exploitation at the hands of their leaders.
The Troubling Surge in Coups
Recent years have witnessed a concerning increase in coup attempts across African nations. Out of a total of 416 attempted coups globally since 1950, Africa accounts for an alarming 214, prompting fears that more African countries may be vulnerable to political instability.
Youth Exodus and Economic Struggles
A growing number of young Africans are now looking beyond the continent for opportunities. Economic prospects, access to quality education, and a desire for new experiences are driving this trend. It’s estimated that approximately 16 million young Africans are grappling with unemployment. A lack of faith in their governments is evident, with at least 75% of youths in Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa believing their needs are disregarded, as highlighted by the 2019 Ibrahim Forum Report. This represents a significant setback in the realm of human development.
Democracy Endures
However, it would be incorrect to conclude that Africans have turned their backs on democracy. In fact, they vehemently oppose tyranny. According to a Washington Post Afrobarometer, 42% of Africans believe that elections in their countries are effective in reflecting the views of voters and enabling the removal of leaders who fail to meet the people’s expectations.
The Uphill Battle for Democracy
Maintaining democracy remains a formidable challenge. The ruling elites have effectively hijacked Africa’s political and economic landscape, perpetuating a system that fosters corruption and inefficiency. Foreign interference and the involvement of external authoritarian regimes have also played a role in undermining democratic institutions.
The Consequences of Eroding Democratic Values
The erosion of democratic values has resulted in widespread agitation, insurgency, economic hardship, and poverty. Addressing these challenges necessitates a united front of engaged citizens who compel governments to prioritize the welfare of Africans. Key issues that demand attention include unemployment, healthcare, infrastructure development, education, access to clean water, crime reduction, poverty alleviation, economic management, energy supply, anti-corruption efforts, food security, and the removal of trade barriers.
The Role of Regional Cooperation
Regional economic organizations, such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), must proactively hold democratically elected leaders accountable for sowing discord, poverty, and autocracy while in power. By doing so, military interventions to reverse coups can be prevented.
Echoes of Prosperity
As the renowned Ghanaian economist George Ayittey once stated, Africa’s path to economic prosperity is encapsulated in three simple words: “peace, infrastructure, and economic freedom.” These pillars remain crucial as Africa seeks to overcome its challenges, fostering an environment where democracy can thrive and prosperity can flourish for its people.
