Challenges of Democracy and Development in Africa, South of the Sahara

Abstract

Development thrives when democratic principles and governance are exuded by leaders. There is a challenge in the democratisation processes looking at the development deficits of Africa. Postcolonial leaders of Africa, south of the Sahara have struggled desperately to live up to their political expectations—a reason why many would argue, results in the snail pace development of their respective countries. Democracy nourishes strong institutions, transparent governance, accountability and equitable distribution of resources. However, what is commonly noticed in the least developed states in Africa south of the Sahara is a practices of clientelism, prebendalism, ‘clanisation’ and patrimonialism. This paper examines the link between democracy and development. It discusses some of the lapses of political leaders and how that impedes the political, and development agendas of Africa, south of the Sahara. The discussion concludes that should Africa, south of the Saharan leaders continue to promote token gestures of democracy to the masses, their development agenda will never be met. It is, therefore, important to stress by way of recommendation, the strengthening of institutions to ght corruption, and freedom of press and citizen’s speech, be critically encouraged.