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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The price of the ballot and the politics of power
Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni won a seventh term after the 15 January 2026 elections, extending four decades in power. Results announced on 17 January put him ahead of opposition leader Bobi Wine.
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Exposing gaps in governance and regulation
AI is advancing fast, but governance lags. Experts warn that without context-sensitive regulation, digital rights are at risk, personal data can be misused, and African languages may be excluded.
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Why liberals and Germany must get it right
Germany faces growing labour shortages and skills gaps, making migration central to its economy. For liberals, the challenge is ensuring mobility is fair, transparent and drives shared prosperity.
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Brussels’ bet on Pretoria, and its payoffs
Europe’s full attendance at the Johannesburg G20 defies US pressure and signals a strategic bet on Africa. With Washington turning inward, Brussels sees the summit as a chance to assert autonomy, fill a leadership gap, and reset ties with the Global South.
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Unlocking democracy through youth-centred financing and innovation
The recent G20 Sideline Event at the FNF regional office in Johannesburg set the tone for a powerful day of ideas and collaboration ahead of the main G20 gathering on 22-23 November 2025.
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Autonomy, compliance and accountability
Attending the ACHPR’s 85th Session revealed the Commission’s struggle to balance autonomy, accountability and political pressure while safeguarding human rights across Africa.
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Between junta, JNIM, and mercenaries: The bitter struggle for gold and power continues
Mali at a Dead End: Trapped between a military junta, jihadist forces, and mercenaries, the country is unraveling in a brutal fight for gold, power, and survival, a silent crisis unfolding at Europe’s doorstep.
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Inclusive governance for a safer Africa
Liberal values are incomplete in Africa while women & LGBTQ+ communities face violence, discrimination, and exclusion. True peace, security and governance require their full protection and inclusion.
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Climate adaptation strategies must fit the African context to work
Africa’s key sectors face rising climate risks. Businesses, guided by NBI and partners, are now embedding adaptation strategies to protect operations, livelihoods, and support a just, low-carbon transition.
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When anger shapes votes
African elections in 2024–2025 show rising populism, challenging democratic institutions. For Germany, stable governance in Africa is key for security, trade, and long-term regional cooperation.
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Young Zimbabwean activist to receive the 2025 German Africa Award
FNF celebrates the announcement of Namatai Kwekweza’s selection as the 2025 recipient for the German Africa Award, a prestigious honour recognising individuals who make significant contributions to democracy, economic development, peace and human rights.
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FNF mourns the death of Raila Odinga
The FNF mourns former Kenyan PM Raila Odinga, a champion of democracy and justice. His leadership and courage inspired generations, strengthening liberal values in Kenya and across Africa.
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The liberal edge – Can LDS continue to chart the way forward?
Seychelles’ Oct 9–11, 2025 runoff pits incumbent President Ramkalawan against US leader Herminie, marking one of the nation’s most competitive elections since ending four decades of one-party rule.
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People resolve to make peace their priority
The HGPI-SS aims to make peace in South Sudan possible by uniting citizens, civil society, diaspora, and political actors, responding to a call from SSuDEMOP and the Technical Secretariat.
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The multipolar world demands a new African strategy
Africa has long been sidelined by a post-WWII global order. Shikwati urges reclaiming agency, blending reforms with global engagement, and shaping a strategic, independent future.
Social Media
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In this ENCA interview, Naledi Moleo speaks to Inge Herbert, Regional Director for the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom in Sub-Saharan Africa, about the 2026 Ugandan presidential election and its aftermath. President Yoweri Museveni has been declared the winner of his seventh term, securing 71.65% of the vote, according to the official figures. However, his main challenger, Bobi Wine of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has rejected the results as “fake”, citing widespread intimidation, ballot issues and a nationwide internet shutdown that disrupted communications and observation. You can find our latest article on the developments in Uganda around the elections here: https://www.freiheit.org/sub-saharan-africa/price-ballot-and-politics-power
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2025 broke the climate promise and Africa paid the price. Climate finance commitments were missed again. Fossil fuel lobbying surged. Adaptation funding stalled while floods, heatwaves, and food insecurity spread across the continent. Africa cannot adapt on promises alone. 2026 must deliver real money, legally binding commitments, and serious investment in local renewable solutions. #ClimateJustice #AfricaAndClimate #ClimateFinance #EnergyTransition #2026Now
Focus
Our Experts
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Divided We Fall: ASEAN’s Response to Trump’s Illiberal Trade Agenda
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The price of the ballot and the politics of power
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Cycling is a powerful expression of freedom – Winde
Freedom