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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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. The coalition's ability to maintain unity and implement deeper structural changes will determine its success and the long-term economic outlook for South Africa.
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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.
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Strengthening human rights reporting in Sierra Leone
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom sub-Saharan Africa, in collaboration with the German Embassy in Sierra Leone, recently organised a roundtable discussion titled "Strengthening Human Rights Reporting in Sierra Leone." Held alongside the recording of the Let’s Talk Human Rights podcast, which focuses on transitional and restorative justice in post-conflict nations, the event gathered key figures from journalism and government to explore the challenges and opportunities in human rights reporting.
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A look at Botswana, Namibia, and Mozambique ahead of their elections
In Africa, about 19 elections are expected to take place throughout the year. In Southern Africa, the Republics of Botswana, Namibia, and Mozambique are democracies that must pass this test. This article analyses and critically engages on key issues in Botswana, Namibia, and Mozambique’s upcoming elections. Paying attention to the political context, legal framework, Election Management Bodies (EMBs), voter registration, political parties, campaign finances, the role of media, and civil society as elections unfold in these countries.
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Competition between systems - China's role in Africa and why Europe must react now
President Xi Jinping opened the China-Africa Cooperation Forum in Beijing, hosting African leaders at a grand banquet. However, beneath the celebrations lie significant challenges. Many African countries face rising debt and economic struggles, with some issues linked to Chinese investments that have led to heavy financial burdens. Meanwhile, Europe finds itself trailing behind China in its engagement with Africa. To regain influence and success on the continent, Europe must quickly adopt a more responsive and respectful strategy, fostering authentic partnerships with African nations.
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Bobi Wine under attack in Uganda again
The "shooting" of Bobi Wine in Bulindo on September 3 sent shockwaves through Uganda and beyond, underlining the perilous political climate as the country approaches a pivotal presidential election. Wine, a prominent opposition figure, has long been a symbol of resistance against President Yoweri Museveni’s regime, which is marked by violent crackdowns on dissent. This attack raises serious concerns about the safety of opposition leaders and the integrity of the upcoming elections. It highlights the oppressive environment under which political campaigns are conducted in Uganda.
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Paving the way to sustainability
Under the inspiring motto "Paving the Way to Sustainability," Sekelo Shude triumphed at the Falling Walls Lab held in Cape Town on August 29th, securing first place among 83 competitors. The competition was intense, with only 10 finalists selected to present their groundbreaking ideas in a 3-minute pitch. Sekelo's project, titled "Breaking the Wall of Plastic Pollution," captivated the judges with its innovative approach to tackling environmental challenges. The project focuses on creating durable pavers made from a combination of sand and recycled plastic waste, offering a sustainable solution to the growing problem of plastic pollution.
Social Media
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🎙️ Join the conversation on #SierraLeone’s journey from civil war to democracy! 🇸🇱 The Sierra Leone Civil War left over 50,000 dead and half a million displaced, fueled by blood diamonds and exploitation. But 22 years later, how has the nation healed, and how has generational learning shaped its #democracy? Tune in to Let’s Talk Human Rights with Masechaba Masemola waMdaka, featuring guests Marcella Samba Sesay and Bernadette Abioseh French, as they explore transitional justice in post-conflict Sierra Leone. 🗓️ Don’t miss Episode 2 of the season! Here: https://iono.fm/e/1486728 🎧 Don't miss out! Also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts. #SierraLeone #TransitionalJustice #HumanRights #LetstalkHumanRights
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Recent polls indicate a troubling trend for Germany's democratic parties, with the far-right populist party, the AfD, poised for success in upcoming provincial elections in Thuringia, Saxony, and Brandenburg. This potential outcome threatens to complicate coalition-building efforts among mainstream parties, reminiscent of South Africa's recent experience with a Government of National Unity (GNU) aimed at preventing extremist governance. FNF Africa intern scholar Johannes Jüngling speaks to Thulasizwe Simelane on this issue on The Morning Brief, SAfmRadio.
