Sub-Saharan Africa
The future of Africa is often regarded in a strangely unimaginative and pessimistic way. Yet Africa today is full of diversity, economic potential and innovative development.
However, the continent faces numerous challenges. As a liberal foundation, we believe that sustainable development depends on strong democratic institutions. Through our activities, we therefore promote liberal policies such as human rights, the rule of law, innovation, digitalisation and free trade.
From our offices in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Harare, Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, Abidjan and Dakar, we support partners in several African countries in advocating liberal values and implementing democratic structures.
News
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How Vladimir Putin got checkmated in South Africa - Takeaways for team Trump
On May 29, 2024, at polling station in Pretoria, South Africa, attached to an election study tour as an advisor to the country's leading opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), during the most consequential election since Nelson Mandela rose to the Presidency in the first post-Apartheid, all-race, political contest, I witnessed with great satisfaction how Vladimir Putin learned the same lesson Ellen taught me. Though, I remain unconvinced he sees it that way. Below I reveal how Russian security services infiltrated South African's political party machinery hoping to draw the country completely into Russia's orbit. It was a masterful plot, praying upon the corruption it enabled, and generational tribal fissures easily gas-lighted.
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Women call for greater support in politics amid ongoing challenges
Zimbabwean women's participation in politics remains low, despite comprising 52% of the population—making them the largest demographic group. To address this, FNF Zimbabwe hosted a meeting for young and veteran women taking center stage in politics. The event, themed “History of Women’s Political Participation in Zimbabwe: A Reflection and Celebration,” provided a platform to discuss historical and current challenges in the political arena.
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Where are the EDR mechanisms in post electoral violence?
Election protests in Mozambique have escalated into a national crisis. Reports of election irregularities and tragic assassinations of opposition figures have led to a wave of demonstrations—and deadly confrontations. Observers from the EU and AU pointed to severe administrative failures and potential disenfranchisement of opposition voters, while Mozambique’s recent decline in democracy rankings has intensified doubts about the election’s legitimacy.
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Intergenerational co-leadership and the future of freedom in Africa
FNF Africa hosted the 2024 Africa Freedom Prize Award, in partnership with the African Leadership Academy (ALA). This prestigious event recognises exceptional contributions to liberal civil society in Africa, focusing specifically on the role of liberalism, democracy, and freedom across the continent. The 2024 Africa Freedom Prize was awarded to His Excellency President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles, whose leadership in promoting democracy and freedom has set a notable example across Africa.
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Honouring President Wavel Ramkalawan of the Seychelles
We are pleased to announce the 2024 Africa Freedom Prize, celebrating outstanding contributions to liberal civil society in Africa. This year’s theme, "Intergenerational Co-leadership and the Future of Freedom in Africa," highlights the importance of youth leadership shaping the continent’s future alongside established leaders. Partnering with the African Leadership Academy, the event emphasizes liberalism, democracy, and freedom. The 2024 prize will honour President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles for exemplary leadership promoting democracy and freedom.
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A New Image of Africa_X Spaces conversation series
A New Image of Africa initiative successfully achieved its goal of promoting African entrepreneurship and innovation. By bringing together a diverse group of speakers and start-ups, the event provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing African entrepreneurs today. With over 110 start-ups registered in its database and hundreds of participants engaged in the virtual discussions (133 live listeners and is viewed by 938 users and growing), the initiative highlighted the continent’s entrepreneurial energy and potential.
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Elections amid insurgency and economic crisis
Mozambique will hold presidential and parliamentary elections on the 9th of October marking the end of President Filipe Nyusi's two-term tenure. Nyusi has been praised for upholding the constitution and not seeking a third term, unlike the trend on the continent. Elections are expected amid insurgence, rising political tensions, and widespread economic challenges. Poverty, fueled by systemic corruption, poor governance, and incompetence, has led to widespread discontent across various sectors of society.
Social Media
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The FNF regional director, Inge Herbert, is attending the launch of Kenyan lawyer, human rights activist, and politician, Martha Karua’s ‘Against the Tide’ memoir. It reveals “the strength behind her enduring commitment to social justice and equality”. This inspiring story of resilience, integrity and courage invites readers to stand firm in their own convictions and to believe in the power of change. #Marthaagainstthetide
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Women in Zimbabwean 🇿🇼 politics face significant challenges, including cyberbullying, cultural stereotypes, and high nomination fees, which hinder their participation and leadership. Events like the one hosted by FNF Zimbabwe today, launching the History of Women's Political Participation in Zimbabwean Politics, provide vital platforms for dialogue and mentorship among female politicians. These initiatives foster unity and empower women to speak with a collective voice. Addressing these barriers requires reforms to the Political Parties Finance Act and electoral laws, ensuring a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in politics.
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FNF Africa Regional Director Inge Herbert, along with Project Coordinator Miklos Romandy, are in Zimbabwe for tomorrow’s launch of the ‘History of Women’s Political Participation in Zimbabwean Politics’ documentary. Today, they received updates on the state of the Zimbabwean economy from the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce. Key discussions focused on the challenges facing the economy, including the crippling power outages affecting the business sector, and the growing informal economy, which requires innovative, liberal solutions for sustainable growth.
Focus
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One year of Javier Milei's economic policy
Argentina -
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom awards the 2024 Freedom Prize to Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza.
Freedom Prize -
FNF Philippines is Hiring A Project Officer
PHILIPPINES -
Not a walk in the park at Sugarloaf Mountain: G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro
G20 summit