Major Political Problems in Africa
Just like all countries in the world, African countries rely on politics to shape the social and economic wellbeing of its citizens.
However, major political problems have been a great hindrance to the achievement of Africa’s potential. We will discuss these political problems and see whether there is future hope for Africa.
Critical issues in Africa’s politics
Tribalism
One of the main issues affecting the development of Africa is tribalism. This is an issue affecting nearly all African countries, yet it is supposed to be the unifying factor in these countries.
Take the example of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda where the Hutu and the Tutsi fought each other for political superiority. Another example is the 2007 post-election violence in Kenya where different tribes were up against each other because of political power.
Every tribe always wants one of their own to be in leadership, probably with the thought that they will get direct benefits.
Intermarriages are considered as the leading options for solving the problem of tribalism in Africa.
Terrorism
Nowadays terrorism has become a common thing in Africa, unlike in the 20th century when such cases were rare.
Nigeria is one of the hardest-hit countries by terrorism in Africa. Boko Haram is a constant threat to Nigeria’s peace and political stability. This terror group has been organising systematic attacks targeting non-Muslims in the country.
Kenya is also another country that has been experiencing terror-related attacks organised by the al-Qaeda affiliates, Al-Shabaab.
Civil wars
Another great political problem in Africa is the emergence of numerous civil wars in the continent. Most of these civil wars are organised with the aim of taking over political power from the legitimate officeholders.
Congo is one of the countries that face constant civil wars with many groups attacking the government from the forests. Uganda also faces the same problem, but theirs is from one main rebel group, the Lord’s Resistance Army.
Political assassinations
For the love of power and all that comes with it, there have been many political assassinations of prolific political personas in the continent.
Take the example of South Sudan’s John Garang who died in a mysteries helicopter crash soon after the country had attained its independence from Sudan. Another perfect example is Burkina Faso’s Thomas Sankara who is alleged to have been killed by his successor Blaise Compaore
The worrying trend of these political assassinations is that it deprives Africa of visionary leaders who can change the face of the continent.
Overreliance on foreign donor
This is actually one of the biggest political problems Africa has. Most countries are still relying on foreign aid to sustain the functioning of their governments.
Whilst aid itself is a good gesture, there are many attachments that come with these donations. You will find that most of the government leaders are dictated by the donors on the kind of policies to make, regardless of whether they are good for the country or not.
Final say:
If all African countries can relook at these issues keenly, then the immediate future of the continent would be great.
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