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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Africa and Europe at crossroads
Africa and Europe face a defining moment in global trade as rising US tariffs threaten to reshape economic relationships. Zimbabwe, as Chair of SADC, suspended all tariffs on American imports after Washington imposed an 18% duty on Zimbabwean goods. This diplomatic gesture highlights Africa’s lack of a unified trade response, exposing its industries to risk and weakening negotiating power. As the Trump Administration leans into protectionism and China deepens its influence across Africa, the European Union has a narrow window to offer a fair, rules-based alternative. A stronger Africa-Europe alliance could protect both regions from instability while offering real pathways for growth, cooperation, and prosperity. The current 90-day pause in US tariffs should not lull policymakers into silence — it is a moment for vision, urgency, and strategic partnership. Read the full analysis by Christopher Mugaga.
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The role of C20 in shaping an inclusive G20 2025
As South Africa prepares to host the G20 Summit in 2025, the world’s attention is on how this global event can drive meaningful change. The theme—Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability—highlights the need for inclusive policies that tackle pressing global challenges like inequality, climate change, and economic instability. But for real impact, the voices of everyday people must be heard. Civil Society Organisations play a crucial role in ensuring the G20’s decisions reflect the needs of all communities, not just governments and businesses.
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The deterioration of U.S.-South Africa relations
The expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool in March 2025, after remarks on U.S. racial politics, marked a low in relations. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Rasool a “race-baiting politician,” highlighting tensions. The conflict reflects deeper ideological and policy differences, particularly on racial redress. U.S. officials have misrepresented South Africa’s economic and land reforms as discriminatory. This weaponisation of race has strained ties, underscoring the need to move beyond racial narratives in foreign relations, writes Kwezi Sogoni.
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Strengthening partnerships for sustainable growth
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation played a key role at the RenewPac Summit in Abidjan, focusing on governance, innovation, and strengthening EU-Africa partnerships. Key discussions included climate resilience, economic development, and fostering political participation among women and youth. FNF led a session on "The Next Big Idea," driving transformative ideas for collaboration, and co-hosted a workshop on empowering women in politics.
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Safe community for development
In Tanzania's Siha district, a groundbreaking initiative is challenging the deeply rooted practice of Female Genital Mutilation within the Maasai community. Led by FNF and KWIECO, the Safe Community for Development project is more than a fight against FGM—it’s a movement for human rights and community empowerment. Watch our short film showcasing inspiring stories of resilience, hope, and activism as communities break the silence on FGM.
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Under fire: How Trump & Co. are interfering in South Africa's land rights debate
The criticism from the USA is less a matter-of-fact debate than a declaration of war; for the debate has a geopolitical dimension. South Africa, this year's host of the G20 summit, is a founding member of the BRICS community of states. The South African governing party, the ANC, has maintained close relations with Russia and China for years. South Africa has also brought a lawsuit against Israel before the International Court of Justice for genocide in Gaza.
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Are Trump's policies holding human rights organisations hostage?
Since President Donald Trump’s executive order halting US-backed funding to various aid agencies, many recipient organisations are grappling with its impact. Much has been written about programmes including health response, humanitarian aid, security enforcement, and advocacy support. Beyond work practicalities, thousands of livelihoods hang in the balance amid the uncertainty of their futures.
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Dramatic Escalation of Violence in Syria Three Months After the Fall of the Assad Regime
Almost exactly three months after the fall of the Assad regime, the violence in Syria has escalated dramatically. Regional Office Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Jörg Dehnert, spoke to Rafif Jouejati, Vice President of the Syrian Liberal Party, about the dramatic developments in Syria.
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Strengthening African democracies: Lessons from the continent
Africa’s journey toward democratic governance has been marked by progress, setbacks, and invaluable lessons. Since the wave of independence in the mid-20th century, the continent has seen an evolution in governance models, with democracy gradually becoming a central aspiration for many nations. While challenges persist, there is a growing recognition of the need to strengthen democratic systems, enhance accountability, and ensure governance that serves the people.
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Disinformation wars: Protecting democracy in Africa’s digital age
Research by Chinasa T. Okolo, a fellow in the Center for Technology at Brookings suggests that advances in digital technology within Africa has inadvertently created an opportunity for the proliferation of disinformation across the continent. Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI) is being used as a tool to advance disinformation through the creation of content that manipulates public opinion, and spreads false narratives, posing a direct threat to democracy.
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The role of youth in reclaiming democracy in Africa
The youth have consistently played a pivotal role in shaping democracy, driving progress toward fairness, justice, and development. Across the globe, and especially in Africa—the youngest continent demographically—their contributions have been significant, whether intentional or incidental. From the anti-colonial movements that began with Ghana's landmark democratic independence to the powerful youth-led revolt of 1976 in South Africa, young people have always been at the forefront of agitating for democratic freedom and equity.
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Are governments doing enough to defend women's gains in democracy and governance?
At the 64th Congress of Liberal International in Santiago, Chile, women leaders convened to discuss their experiences, challenges, and victories. Despite progress, significant challenges and inequalities persist. Women remain underrepresented in leadership positions, particularly in top decision-making roles. They often face discrimination, bias, and limited access to resources and opportunities.
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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.
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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.
Social Media
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Rising US tariffs are reshaping global trade. As SADC Chair, Zimbabwe suspended duties on American imports after Washington imposed an 18% tariff on its goods — exposing Africa’s lack of a united trade front. With the US turning inward and China deepening its reach, Europe has a narrow window to offer a fair, rules-based alternative. The 90-day tariff pause calls for vision and urgency, not silence. Read the full analysis by Christopher Mugaga, Chief Executive at Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce.
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🚨 CALLING YOUNG JOURNALISTS! 🚨 Are you passionate about media and ready to shape the future of journalism in Zimbabwe? 📍 Harare | 13–15 June 2025 📍 Bulawayo | 18 - 20 July 2025 We’re inviting applications from dynamic journalism/media graduates (or final year students) under 35 who are practising or aspiring journalists. 📄 How to apply: Write a ½ page motivation Attach a 1½ page CV Combine into one PDF document Indicate your preferred location (Harare or Bulawayo) 📧 Email your application to: harare@freiheit.org CC: faithzaba14@gmail.com or apply at https://tinyurl.com/mt9stzzk 🗓️ Deadline: 30 April 2025 Tag a friend who should apply! #Womentorship #Up4Democracy
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Experience the German Parliament First-Hand! 🇩🇪 Are you a politically engaged young leader from Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, or Uganda? The International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) for African Countries offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Germany’s parliamentary system. ✅ 4-week intensive programme in Berlin ✅ Work placement with a Bundestag Member ✅ €700 stipend + free accommodation & travel costs covered Eligibility: 🔹 Under 30 years old 🔹 University degree 🔹 B2-level German proficiency 🔹 Passion for politics & civic engagement 📌 Apply now! More details: www.bundestag.de/ips_afrikanisch 📩 Submit your application to the German diplomatic mission in your country. For queries, contact: ips-afrika@bundestag.de
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