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, Nairobi, Abidjan and Dakar, we support partners in several African countries in advocating liberal values and implementing democratic structures.
News
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A win-win policy for Africa and Europe
Political leaders and young changemakers from Africa and Europe gather in Rabat for the RENEWPAC Summit 2026 to strengthen liberal partnerships and explore solutions for governance, trade, climate and youth participation.
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The future of the South Africa-Germany partnership
South Africa and Germany confront a “New Normal” in global trade. At an FNF panel in Johannesburg, leaders discussed supply chains, green transition and investment, while tackling corruption and infrastructure challenges.
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How one interview sparked diplomatic engagement
Animu A. Risasi Amitai’s story of statelessness is sparking diplomatic engagement ahead of South Sudan’s 2026 elections, showing how personal testimony can drive dialogue on rights and inclusion.
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Safeguarding humanity in the age of unpredictability
New publication on International Humanitarian Law examines why the rules of war still matter. Focusing on Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado conflict, it offers practical guidance to protect civilians.
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Between caution and confidence
Ramaphosa’s SONA signalled cautious progress: growth returns, reforms take hold and loadshedding eases. Now South Africans want proof that stability delivers jobs, relief and real opportunity.
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Between Washington and Brics — SA’s strategic squeeze
SA’s Brics+ naval drills aren’t a reckless pivot but a hedge in a fractured world order. As US pressure grows, Pretoria is diversifying partners while urging deeper, values-based ties with Europe.
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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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Cape Town 2025 showcases bold ideas
Today, Falling Walls Lab Cape Town 2025 showcased young innovators pitching bold ideas in 3 minutes, tackling health, education, sustainability, and entrepreneurship to reshape the future.
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A new chapter for photography in Africa
In September, the Roger Ballen Centre opened in Johannesburg, offering Africa a dedicated photography space. Its inaugural PSYCHOPOMP! exhibition, curated by Eldagsen, is supported by FNF.
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South Africa’s foreign policy in a turbulent world
FNF hosted a Freedom Dialogue with South Africa’s Minister Lamola, bringing diplomats together to discuss foreign policy, trade, BRICS, and the G20 ahead of 2025 amid global uncertainty.
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Germany’s Niklas Wagner on liberalism, youth activism, and South Africa’s lasting impact
Young liberal leaders from Germany and South Africa met through an FNF study tour, where Niklas Wagner joined DA Youth and DASO to discuss democracy, civic participation, and global cooperation.
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How Uganda’s diaspora is fighting for freedom ahead of 2026
Ahead of Uganda’s 2026 elections, the diaspora is mobilising support, funds, and awareness of human rights abuses, with Kyagulanyi’s SA visit sparking renewed activism for a “protest vote.”
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The tale of continued disillusionment of the youth
Mozambique’s youth face unemployment, limited education, and systemic barriers. Political education is key to empowering them and turning opportunities into real change 50 years post-independence.
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Delegation of the Democratic Alliance Visits Liberal Partners in Brussels and Berlin
DA delegation visited Brussels and Berlin (22–28 June 2025) hosted by FNF to boost liberal ties on energy and EU–Africa relations, meeting MEPs, EU officials, FDP leaders, and Deputy Minister Ashor Sarupen.
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Reimagining global finance
As debt distress tightens its grip on the Global South, 35 developing countries teeter on the brink of default with many now spending more on interest payments than on education or healthcare. At a high-level roundtable hosted by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, experts and policymakers examined the structural flaws of the global financial system, questioning whether it supports or stifles development. With rigid lending rules, outdated restructuring mechanisms, and growing pressure from both traditional and non-traditional creditors, the crisis is no longer just economic, it is profoundly social and political.
Social Media
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Can South Africa outcompete the world in the "New Normal"? 🇿🇦🇩🇪 The full video from our high-level panel on the South Africa-Germany Trade Relationship is now LIVE! Why you should watch: 1️⃣ Understand the mechanical realities of the EV transition. 2️⃣ Get the inside track on SA’s new trade roadmap under the GNU. 3️⃣ Hear how industry is tackling infrastructure and corruption hurdles. 📺 Watch the full session here: https://youtu.be/R0Xj6m1pcXM #FNFutureTradeSAGermany
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Shaping the Future of SA-Germany Trade 🇿🇦🇩🇪 Yesterday in Johannesburg, we brought together the best minds in policy and industry to discuss the "Emerging Trade Order." From the EU’s 12 billion euro Global Gateway to the National Treasury’s "Butterfly Strategy," the roadmap for South Africa's partnership with Germany has never been clearer. A huge thank you to our panelists from Siemens, KSB Pumps, and the EU Delegation for their pragmatic optimism. As we navigate 2026, our shared democratic values remain the anchor for a bright, competitive and future oriented economy. 🔗 Read the full event overview and download the report here: https://www.freiheit.org/sub-saharan-africa/future-south-africa-germany-partnership #FNFutureTradeSAGermany #SouthAfrica #Germany #EconomicDevelopment #GNU #GlobalTrade
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The South Africa–Germany partnership is entering a new phase. While automotive trade has long dominated, the future lies in diversification. New investment is flowing into renewable energy, green hydrogen, digital infrastructure, and logistics. This shift is about building a more resilient and forward-looking partnership. 📘 Download the full report: https://www.freiheit.org/de/node/52081 #FNFutureTradeSAGermany
