As political, economic, and social crises continue to ravage Africa, the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG) is set to host its 2024 Africa Conference from 3rd to 4th October, 2024, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, with the aim to rethink governance and leadership in Africa.
The conference, which is expected to bring together value-orientated politicians, policymakers, and civil society leaders from across the continent, will also see participants connect, share insights, and develop actionable solutions to the governance challenges facing Africa today.
Former Minister of Education and founder of SPPG, Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, while giving views about the conference, said the time has come for Africa to bring on board leaders who are courageous, can change the narrative, and will prioritise citizens’ welfare and interest above self-interest.
According to the World Food Programme (WFP), Africa faces a complex confluence of crises, including an alarming food and nutrition emergency and also regional insecurity, climate-related disasters, the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, and global economic disruptions that have combined to exacerbate governance challenges. Protests and unrest, driven by electoral disputes, governance failures, and rising living costs, have erupted in countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, and Tunisia, with a surge in coups in the Sahel since 2020.
The WFP added that since 2020, multiple coups d’état in the Sahel region and widespread civil unrest from Nigeria to Tunisia have demonstrated the urgent need for a reformed governance model that centres on African citizens. Civil society organisations and social movements across the continent are sounding the alarm, calling for more inclusive, citizen-focused leadership.
Despite these challenges, however, African civil society and social movements have consistently called for a transformation of the continent’s governance systems. They advocate for a future where the interests of African citizens are at the heart of decision-making, driven by effective and accountable leadership.
“Africa Conference 2024 presents a unique platform for leaders who are committed to disruption, not for disruption’s sake, but for the transformation and betterment of our nations.
“At a time when our continent faces multiple crises, we need leaders who possess both the values and the courage to reimagine governance, prioritise citizens’ interests and foster resilience,” Ezekwesili, a leading advocate for transparent governance, said.
The two-day event will feature expert panels, facilitated discussions, and breakout sessions designed to explore innovative solutions to Africa’s governance challenges. These sessions will focus on political leadership, institutions and policies, and citizen engagement. The event will also include a Citizens’ Solidarity Walk, symbolising participants’ commitment to building connections and reinforcing solidarity across Africa.
The conference, which has its theme titled “Good Governance in Africa: Leaders and Citizens Driving Systematic Change,” will have a Member of Parliament for Klottey Korie Constituency, Accra, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, as key note speaker.
Also to speak at the event among others are Adama Gaye, Co-convener, Fixpolitics & SPPG Senegal; Gift ‘Ostallos’ Siziba, Member of Parliament-elect, Pelandaba-Tshabalala Constituency, Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe; Lahiani Najla, Member of Tunisian Parliament; Ambassador Erastus Nwencha, member, Fixpolitics & SPPG, Kenya; Comrade Reagan Miviri, Executive Director, La Lucha, DR Congo; Ayobami Olunloyo, SPPG Alumnus; Dr Abiola Akiyode, Dean, SPPG Nigeria; Alero Ayida-Otobo, CEO, The SPPG; Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, Founder and Chair, Fixpolitics & The SPPG.
According to the organisers, through discussions and collaborative efforts, Africa Conference 2024 aims to develop strategies for systemic change that will influence governance in the short, medium, and long term with the objective to build a future where political leadership, institutions, and policies work effectively for the people and not against them.
