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Long before Africa was colonized, it boasted sophisticated systems of governance rooted in tradition and culture. These systems were led by traditional leaders, kings, chiefs, and elders who were responsible for guiding the community and maintaining social order. Leadership was often hereditary and balanced by councils and assemblies representing the wider community. However, many African leaders also participated in the transatlantic slave trade and sold their own people into slavery.
In many African societies, freedom was not just an individual right, but also a collective responsibility. Community well-being took precedence over individual desires. Decisions are made based on community values and customs, ensuring that individual actions are consistent with the greater good of society. However, this system often prevented individuals from thriving based on their personal beliefs.
This raises an important question: was this the true essence of freedom?
The current state of freedom in Africa
Today, the leadership landscape in Africa has changed dramatically, and in many cases for the worse. Leaders who should prioritize the welfare of their people often become selfish and fail to uphold the principles of freedom. The communal values of the past, where leadership was about stewardship and collective good, are being overshadowed by the pursuit of personal gain.
The contrast between traditional leadership and modern governance is striking. In Africa Betrayed, George Ayiti argues that the decline in the value of communal leadership has led modern leaders to prioritize individual power over collective good. This change has resulted in systems of governance that often suppress the freedoms that are central to African society.
Botswana: Threat to freedom of expression
Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy in Botswana, allowing individuals to express their views and participate in public debate. However, laws such as Section 59(1) of Botswana’s Penal Code, which criminalizes the publication of “alarming information”, pose a threat to this freedom. Ambiguity in the law allows for arbitrary enforcement, stifles dissent, and stifles free speech.
Democratic Republic of the Congo: a paralyzed political system
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) presents an even more dire picture. Despite the adoption of a 2023 law guaranteeing freedom of association, assembly, and access to information, the country’s political system is paralyzed by political elites’ manipulation of the electoral process. However, ongoing conflict and corruption have made these rights more theoretical than practical.
The arrest in 2023 of journalist Stanis Bujakera on charges of disseminating false information exemplifies severe restrictions on freedom of expression in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Such actions reflect leadership that not only ignores the principles of freedom, but actively contradicts them.
Uganda: The illusion of press freedom
The Ugandan Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech and press under Article 29(1)(a) and (b). However, these provisions often appear to be more theoretical than practical. The repeated arrests of opposition leader Bobi Wine highlight the disconnect between the law and its application. Despite constitutional promises, the freedom to express dissent is often met with state repression.
regain the essence of freedom
The deterioration of leadership values in Africa, coupled with the suppression of fundamental freedoms, marks a departure from the continent’s rich tradition of good governance. Traditional African concepts of freedom, rooted in collective responsibility and well-being, have been replaced by self-interested leadership.
For Africa to move forward, modern leaders must reconnect with the stewardship and collective good that once defined leadership. Nelson Mandela’s principles remind us that a future without respect for human rights is unthinkable.
True freedom, where individuals can grow within a framework of shared responsibility, can only be achieved when leaders prioritize the well-being of their people over personal interests. In doing so, Africa can reclaim its heritage of freedom and chart a path to a more just and equitable future.
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This article expresses the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily represent the opinions of the organization as a whole. Students For Liberty is committed to representing a variety of voices and fostering a broad dialogue for freedom.
Andrew Mnganga
Regional Coordinator, Students For Liberty
Andrew Mnganga holds a Bachelor’s degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution from Lusang University in Zambia and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Security and Sustainable Development. As Regional Coordinator of Communications and Marketing for African Students for Liberty and a Fellow of the prestigious Prometheus Fellowship, he…
