Megatrends will shape political authority in Africa for the foreseeable future. The continent's societies are becoming younger, larger, more digital and more urban. They need to adapt to the effects of climate change, placing new demands on their states and governments. Established elites and political systems are coming under pressure from social movements. These processes of change can promote democratic structures, but also autocratic tendencies. At present, the latter is the dominant trend in many states around the world. The majority of African countries can be classified as electoral or closed autocracies. Our research examines the conditions under which megatrends have an impact in either direction.
Analyzing the digital transformation in Ghana, this working paper outlines the critical enablers and offers targeted recommendations for stakeholders in the digital sphere. It underscores the pivotal role of government in fostering a digital economy that benefits all.
doi:10.18449/2024MTA-WP11
Social media debates on Zambia’s foreign policy are strongly polarized and focussed on two issues: (1) claims that the Zambian government is a puppet of the West and (2) concerns that the government is undermining Zambia’s long-held policy of non-alignment. These debates demonstrate the complexity of African agency and the domestic concerns that shape how African governments negotiate multipolarity.
doi:10.18449/2024MTA-PB21
While public engagement has contributed to enhancing social justice in Nakuru City, Kenia, challenges in improving governance effectiveness and legitimacy persist. This is due to limited responsiveness of local elites, political and legal loopholes, and restricted public participation.
doi:10.18449/2023MTA-PB18
Illegal artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is attracting Zimbabwe’s youth. Despite numerous challenges, their work ethic, endurance and creativity promote entrepreneurship. Using the rise of mbingas as an example, this policy brief analyses how that may benefit both young people and the economy.
Collaborations between civil society organisations in the development sector are often driven by priorities set in donor countries. In this Spotlight, Megatrends Afrika talked to Margit van Wessel, Wageningen University, about ways to make civil society collaborations more equal.
Ethiopia uses formal social protection programmes as a political instrument. Some of these, however, have an adverse effect on citizens’ equitable access to resources. Integrating informal social protection platforms into the system could help reduce both societal grievances and state fragility.
doi:10.18449/2023MTA-PB15