Ezekwesili Calls for Stronger Policies to Deepen Democracy in Africa
By Matthew Eloyi
Former Vice President of the World Bank’s Africa Region, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has urged African nations to adopt more robust policies and programmes that will strengthen democracy across the continent.
She made this call on Thursday in Abuja during the African Conference organised by the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG).
Ezekwesili emphasised that for democracy to flourish, electoral systems must be transparent and capable leaders must emerge to address the socio-economic challenges plaguing the continent.
She also highlighted SPPG’s mission to groom young leaders from 20 African countries with the skills and mindset needed to improve governance standards.
“What we are doing is correcting not just the supply side by having a school that raises a new generation of politicians who will govern for the public good and not for their personal interest,” Ezekwesili explained.
“We are, in fact, also focused on political literacy, educating the public so that they understand their influence in determining the quality of governance,” she added.
In his remarks, Dr. Zanetor Rawlings, a Member of Parliament from Ghana, raised concerns over the impact of foreign interference in Africa, particularly through the introduction of political and economic models that have worsened poverty.
He called for inclusive governance and accountability to address crimes against humanity across the continent.
“When we talk about violent extremism and terrorism, one thing that always baffles me is where the weapons are coming from. They are not being made magically; every weapon on this planet can be traced,” Rawlings said.
“So beyond capturing extremist groups, why are we not holding those manufacturing the weapons to account?” he questioned.
Cameroonian political activist Kah Walla also spoke at the event, highlighting that over 45 million Africans are displaced annually due to conflicts driven by poor governance.
He called for decisive action to address these issues and reduce conflict to the barest minimum.
