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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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. The summit underscored the need for concrete actions and mutual commitments to progress. Looking ahead, FNF remains dedicated to fostering strategic partnerships that drive sustainable growth, innovation, and meaningful impact across Africa and Europe.
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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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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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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.
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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.
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Ahead of Germany's own elections, are there any lessons from the South African context?
Recent polls suggest the far-right populist party (AfD) is expected to perform strongly in the upcoming autumn provincial elections in Thuringia, Saxony, and Brandenburg. This could complicate coalition-building, likely requiring a broad alliance to prevent an AfD-led government. South Africa’s 2024 Government of National Unity (GNU) offers a parallel, reintroduced after the ANC lost its parliamentary majority, echoing the historic 1994 GNU under Nelson Mandela, which sought to foster national cohesion and democratic stability.
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The role of journalism in Mozambique's electoral landscape
The upcoming elections in Mozambique, set for 9 October 2024, were a focal point at the "Protection of Journalistic Freedom and the Media" seminar held in Maputo. Hosted by the Fondation René Cassin - Institut international des droits de l'homme, the seminar featured Professor Severino Elias Ngoenha, a distinguished Mozambican philosopher, as a keynote speaker. Supported by FNF, the seminar addressed the intersection of political philosophy and media freedom.
Social Media
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ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula to unpack the ANC’s shift in power and its evolving role in South Africa’s political landscape! With the party losing its parliamentary majority, forming the Government of National Unity, and entering a coalition with the DA ahead of the 2026 local elections, this is a pivotal moment in South African politics. Get your complementary ticket NOW! https://bit.ly/4bo5zS8 Can't join us in person? Sign up to watch the event LIVE: https://tally.so/r/wQOQDp #FNFreedomDialogue
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The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom is dedicated to promoting #humanrights and #democracy through its global projects and activities. In more than 60 countries and different regions worldwide, the Foundation not only addresses accountability issues but also strives to advance women's rights, and diversity, among other important causes. It supports human rights defenders, activists, and their partners by providing education and resources to strengthen their efforts. This report offers a snapshot of the FNF's #liberal human rights work in 2024. Find the report here: https://shop.freiheit.org/#!/Publikation/1848
