Active citizenship in contemporary democratic practice in Africa: Challenges and prospects

Abstract

This article argues that active citizenship as a quintessential norm of democracy is lacking in Africa. The colonial interlude in Africa created psychological and institutional confusion which undermined Africans’ ability to actively participate in governance, a phenomenon largely ignored by the current literature on democracy in Africa. To establish active citizenship, reconstructive training to create self-confidence and an economic empowerment programme is required. With psychological and institutional frameworks thus established, citizens can develop the confidence required to take the initiative of self-governance, and to collaborate in constructing their political destinies. A governance model that can ensure active citizenship in Africa is the baraza system of public participation. Domiciled at the village level, it ensures that every individual’s interests are addressed in decision-making, as it obligates every individual to participate in decision-making.