Frank Mattheis, University of Pretoria e Ueli Staeger, Graduate Institute – Institut de hautes études internationales et du développement (IHEID)
Africa’s new continental free trade area, the AfCFTA, is a remarkable achievement. However, decisive diplomatic, technical and social action is needed for it to succeed.
French soldiers patrol in Diabaly, Mali, in 2013, following the failure of the African Support Mission.
EPA/Nic Bothma
With frequent irregularities, it’s easy to become cynical about elections in Africa. But polls are an essential component of the continent’s growing democracy.
West African leaders have nursed the idea of a common currency for the sub-region since the turn of the century. But conditions for member countries to make this happen appear unattainable.
Africa needs to improve governance, build infrastructure, and reduce trade barriers to achieve inclusive growth.
REUTERS/Mohamed Nureldin Abdallah
The need to connect African markets to aid development will once again be discussed at the World Economic Forum. The debate needs to move beyond the usual rhetoric.
King Mohammed VI of Morocco, (L) walks with Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn.
Reuters/Tiksa Negeri
Morocco has been on a massive diplomatic drive, using both its political and economic muscle. Since his coronation in 1999, the king has led over 40 visits to African countries south of the Sahara.
Former Chadian President Hissène Habré defiant as he leaves court in Dakar in 2005.
Reuters/Aliou Mbaye
Former Chadian president Hissène Habré’s fate will be sealed by the appeals judgment in a part domestic and international trial bringing closure to victims and human rights champions after a 20 years.
People cheer as Senegalese troops arrive to take charge of security at the presidential palace in Banjul, The Gambia.
EPA/Legnan Koula
The adoption of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance five years ago raised hopes for a new democratic Africa. But its ideals remain elusive for many parts of the continent.
Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) forces on patrol following deadly fighting close to Malakal in October 16, 2016.
Reuters/Jok Solomon
There’s still hope South Sudan can avoid becoming a full failed state. This will require radical changes in Juba’s mindset and bolder action from regional and international players.
A protest against President Joseph Kabila. The poster reads: “Kabila must leave without any conditions”.
Reuters/Francois Lenoir
Attempts to deepen democracy in Africa by limiting presidential terms to two have not entirely quashed a culture of entitlement to rule. Glimpses of it persist, much against citizens’ wishes.
Members of the Ecowas force at the Denton Bridge check point in Banjul, The Gambia, following Yahya Jammeh’s departure.
Reuters/Thierry Gouegnon
Regional power Ecowas, which has just seen off yet another dictator in Yahya Jammeh, started off with a tame agenda 42 years ago. But it was soon shaped by civil wars, military coups and despots
Gambia’s new President Adama Barrow arriving home.
EPA
Although Ecowas and the AU made sure that Yahya Jammeh stepped down after losing the elections in The Gambia, caution is warranted in assuming this heralds a trend against African dictatorships.
Presidents Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, Muhammadu Buhari, Macky Sall and former Ghanian President John Mahama at a special meeting of Ecowas on The Gambia.
Reuters/Afolabi Sotunde
SADC’s credibility is at stake. Its lack of political will in acting decisively against despots is at odds with the African Union’s goal of promoting legitimate governance on the continent.