Reimagining Governance in Africa and Translating Constitutional Ideals into Action

In the face of increasing economic inequality, voter disengagement and apathy, fiscal challenges, demographic changes, cultural conflicts, and technological disruptions, it is time to reimagine new forms of governance in Africa. The continent has been a test bed for virtually every governance model. By and large, shades of capitalism and social democracy have dominated African political and economic systems. However, these forms of governance are not always clearly defined or understood and can have different meanings and implications in other contexts.

These models are often used as vague labels or slogans without clear definitions or explanations. Often, there is a massive disconnect between what the voter expects and what the politician hopes to deliver. For instance, some politicians may claim to be capitalist or social democratic without specifying what policies or principles they adhere to or how they differ from their opponents. This often creates confusion and mistrust among the public, who may not know what to expect from their leaders or how to hold them accountable.

Furthermore, governance models are not static or uniform but dynamic and diverse. They can vary across time and space, depending on the historical, cultural, economic, and social factors that shape them. For example, capitalism in China is different from capitalism in Kenya, and social democracy in Sweden is different from social democracy in South Africa. Moreover, these models can evolve and change as new challenges and opportunities arise. Therefore, it is not enough to label a country or a government as capitalist or social democratic. As they say, the devil is in the details, making it imperative to examine Africa's governance systems' specific features and outcomes.

Klaus Kotzé’s publication in the January 2024 issue of Inclusive Society Institute reveals citizen discontent with the continent’s governance systems. The paper?"Re-imagining Governance in SA: Putting the Constitution First"?stresses the importance of translating constitutional ideals into practical action. It highlights principles such as Batho Pele, which emphasizes a "people first" approach to public service delivery in South Africa. By implementing these principles, the paper argues, trust between the state and its citizens can be restored, leading to a more effective and just governance system.

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa said in 2012, “The Constitution belongs to all of us, not just the ruling party or one section of South Africa. We all wrote this collectively with our blood, some with their lives, with our tears and with our sweat. We claim it as ours; it enshrines the rights that make us live as South Africans, and we will protect it because it belongs to us.” Like many other African states, the constitution remains an inspirational document as inequality rises because of widespread unemployment in a country endowed with natural resources and a young demography.

African governments face a challenge in translating constitutional ideals into actionable economic and social benefits for their citizens. While the constitutions provide a legal framework and a vision for a democratic and inclusive society, this does not guarantee its realization. Delivering on the constitutional promises of human dignity, equality, and freedom requires effective policies, institutions, leadership, and participation. Some areas where this translation is urgently needed include economic development, social justice, and political participation.

Although the constitution enshrines the right to work, fair labour practices, property, and an environment that is not harmful to health or well-being, much more is required to translate these aspirations into a fair and just governance model. These rights are often violated or ignored in practice within an amorphous definition of capitalistic models of democracy that foster economic inequality and instability. As a result, many people continue to face poverty, unemployment, exploitation, corruption, and environmental degradation. To address these issues, governments must adopt and implement policies promoting inclusive and sustainable growth, creating decent jobs, redistributing wealth and resources, and protecting the environment.

As part of social justice, many of the continent’s constitutions recognize the right to education, health care, clean water, social security, and access to information. However, these rights are often inaccessible or inadequate for many people, especially marginalized and disadvantaged groups. To address these issues, governments must invest in infrastructures and improve the quality and accessibility of public services, ensure universal coverage and affordability, combat discrimination and stigma, and empower people to claim their rights. Mature social democracies, such as those in Scandinavian countries, ensure high social welfare, equity, and cohesion.

Regarding political participation, many African constitutions affirm the right to vote, free expression, peaceful assembly, association, and petition. In practice, however, these rights are often restricted or undermined, as many people face violence, intimidation, censorship, repression, and apathy. To address these issues, governments need to respect and protect the civil and political rights of the people, foster a culture of dialogue and accountability, strengthen the role and independence of the media and other non-state actors, and encourage active citizenship and civic education.

Kotzé advocates for a people-centred governance model, echoing the Freedom Charter's call for the people to govern. This theme is closely linked to the idea of "courageous followership," which highlights the need for citizens to engage actively with public service and governance processes. It calls for the courage to assume responsibility, serve the community, challenge injustices, and participate in transformative efforts. By embracing their roles as co-creators of a capable state, individuals can help shape a governance system that truly reflects and serves the needs of the people.

Africa must reimagine its governance models. By moving beyond vague labels of capitalism and social democracy and focusing on practical applications of constitutional principles, African nations can bridge the gap between ideals and reality. Emphasizing a people-first approach, active citizen participation, and inclusive, sustainable policies will create a fair and just governance system. Through committed leadership and empowered citizens, Africa can transform its constitutional promises into tangible social and economic benefits for all.