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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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. As South Africa and Zimbabwe close borders to curb unrest spillover, the SADC Heads of State prepare for a pivotal meeting to discuss Mozambique’s future. This op-ed highlights the urgent need for Election Dispute Resolution mechanisms and transparent dialogue to address the disillusionment gripping Mozambican citizens and preserve peace in the region.
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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.
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Review of the first 100 Days of the Government of National Unity
For the first time in 25 years, South Africa is governed by a coalition, with the African National Congress (ANC) holding 159 seats and the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 87 seats. The first 100 days have shown both opportunities and challenges. While the coalition has brought political stability, boosting investor confidence and strengthening the rand by 5.8%, it faces significant hurdles. Key issues like energy, infrastructure, and logistics reform remain unresolved.
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15 years of liberal human rights work in West Africa
The right of every human being to dignity, freedom and equality is paramount in the German Basic Law (Grundgesetz) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It forms the cornerstone of German commitment abroad and the work of German political foundations worldwide. In cooperation with civil society, legal institutions and human rights activists, measures are offered to raise awareness, educate, train and empower, focussing on universal human rights and the fight for their observance.
Social Media
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"I’m very grateful to the Friedrich Naumann Foundation. I've had connections with the Foundation for quite some time. In fact, about ten or fifteen years ago, I attended a training session at their centre in Germany focused on leadership. At the time, I was the leader of the opposition, and I was pleasantly surprised when I learnt that the Foundation wanted to honour me. Moreover, I would be the first sitting President to receive this honour, as previous recipients were typically recognised while in opposition. I feel greatly honoured to be receiving the Africa Freedom Prize from the Friedrich Naumann Foundation. I see this as an acknowledgment of the principles and beliefs I stand for, as well as a way to promote liberalism—even though liberalism sometimes carries a negative connotation. I was part of a movement that replaced a party in power for 43 years, and similarly, the ANC in South Africa lost its majority, reshaping the political landscape. Now we have a liberal government in Seychelles, and a liberal influence in South Africa and Zambia. People are increasingly recognising the value of liberalism. This prize is not only a recognition but also a reminder to keep working hard for our people and to remain true servants of the people. I’m both happy and grateful." President Wavel Ramakalwan. #FNFreedomPrize #Up4Democracy https://www.freiheit.org/sub-saharan-africa/intergenerational-co-leadership-and-future-freedom-africa
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Thank you to President Wavel Ramkalawan of the Seychelles for joining us at Weber House today. President Wavel is in South Africa to receive the 2024 Africa Freedom Prize. The #FNFreedomPrize is currently LIVE here 👉 https://www.youtube.com/live/XUH6FpkHbUg?si=0tiV6yLWn_HbHN5P
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The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom's Sub-Saharan Africa regional office recently hosted a training session for National Unity Platform #Uganda 🇺🇬 trainers in Johannesburg. The "Promoting Civil Liberties in East Africa" publication sparked interest among the trainees. FNF is committed to advancing civil liberties and freedoms across Africa. You can find the publication here 👉 https://bit.ly/3YEUwzf
