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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Honouring President Wavel Ramkalawan of the Seychelles
We are pleased to announce the 2024 Africa Freedom Prize, celebrating outstanding contributions to liberal civil society in Africa. This year’s theme, "Intergenerational Co-leadership and the Future of Freedom in Africa," highlights the importance of youth leadership shaping the continent’s future alongside established leaders. Partnering with the African Leadership Academy, the event emphasizes liberalism, democracy, and freedom. The 2024 prize will honour President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles for exemplary leadership promoting democracy and freedom.
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A New Image of Africa_X Spaces conversation series
A New Image of Africa initiative successfully achieved its goal of promoting African entrepreneurship and innovation. By bringing together a diverse group of speakers and start-ups, the event provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing African entrepreneurs today. With over 110 start-ups registered in its database and hundreds of participants engaged in the virtual discussions (133 live listeners and is viewed by 938 users and growing), the initiative highlighted the continent’s entrepreneurial energy and potential.
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Elections amid insurgency and economic crisis
Mozambique will hold presidential and parliamentary elections on the 9th of October marking the end of President Filipe Nyusi's two-term tenure. Nyusi has been praised for upholding the constitution and not seeking a third term, unlike the trend on the continent. Elections are expected amid insurgence, rising political tensions, and widespread economic challenges. Poverty, fueled by systemic corruption, poor governance, and incompetence, has led to widespread discontent across various sectors of society.
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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.
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Strengthening human rights reporting
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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From Coal Cape to Green Cape
From Coal Cape to Green Cape: At the moment, South Africa's economy is not yet green. Currently, 85% of the country's energy comes from coal plants. However, the non-profit organisation GreenCape aims to transform this landscape. Their mission extends beyond just the energy sector, promoting a comprehensive, inclusive green economy across various industries. Central to this mission is the annual FNF GreenPitch Challenge, organised in collaboration with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation.
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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 upcoming elections. Paying attention to the political context, legal framework, 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 causing financial burdens. Meanwhile, Europe lags behind China in its engagement with Africa. To regain influence, Europe must quickly adopt a more responsive and respectful strategy, fostering authentic partnerships with African nations.
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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