An article in The Economist (August 20, 2016) discussed the perceived slowing of democracy in Africa. Some African nations, like Nigeria, are more democratic than they were a few years ago, but others have backtracked. The president of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, changed the country’s constitution so he could run for a third term. Other leaders appear to ignore constitutional safeguards.

Democracy is a young movement in most African nations. Representative institutions in Europe began centuries ago. The American colonists built on them, beginning in the 1600’s.

Terrorist incidents in Africa have created opportunities for more autocratic leaders. Armies have grown and become more influential in African politics.

China is exercising more influence in Africa and serves as an example of a country with economic success that is not a democracy.

However, three changes in the African landscape may eventually increase democracy’s attraction. One, the population is younger and becoming more educated, making it more likely to favor political reforms.

Two, the population is urbanizing. Urban centers are more likely to elect progressive leaders.

Three, the digital age has come to Africa. Corrupt practices can be better monitored. Rigging elections, for example can be offset by smartphones recording votes as they are tallied, making numbers harder to manipulate later. The internet encourages citizen involvement.

The Economist article ends on a high note. This time, the move for more democracy doesn’t come from well-meaning donor nations but from Africans themselves, giving it a firmer foundation for success.