Experts say that strengthening democracy is critical for Africa’s economic growth in 2025. Political unrest in Mozambique, Tunisia, and Mauritania underscores the continent’s ongoing struggles with electoral irregularities and weak institutions. Nevertheless, there were positive signs in other parts of the continent. For instance, in South Africa, the ruling African National Congress had to form a coalition with the opposition Democratic Alliance after it lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years. Likewise, there was a peaceful transition of power in Botswana after the Botswana Democratic Party, which had been in power since the country’s independence in 1966, lost to the opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change. West Africa remains volatile due to coups and terrorism, though Gabon’s transition to democracy offers hope. Experts emphasize that robust institutions and sound governance are essential to address instability and unlock Africa’s potential amid global headwinds.
Source: DW