West Africa Group Launches Plan to Restore Democracy

After nearly three decades of democratic progress, West Africa faces a critical moment. The Centre for Democracy and Development has launched a bold plan to restore hope in a region where military takeovers are making a troubling comeback.

The organization revealed its 2026-2030 roadmap in Abuja, addressing challenges that now threaten millions. While countries like Senegal and Ghana maintain stable democracies, others face military coups and leaders manipulating constitutions to stay in power.

Director Dauda Garuba points to countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea-Bissau, where military-led governments have replaced elected leaders. Trust in elections has dropped as corruption weakens government systems meant to serve the people.

The crisis extends far beyond politics. About 44.3 million people across West Africa and the Sahel region face severe food shortages. Nearly 10 million have been forced from their homes, and 14 million children suffer from malnutrition.

The new plan connects democracy directly to development, treating them as inseparable. CDD-West Africa will work to strengthen democratic institutions, increase public participation, and improve living conditions for everyday citizens.

Former CDD Director Jibrin Ibrahim emphasizes that economic growth only matters when it helps ordinary people. He argues that countries like China, India, and Brazil reduced poverty through careful planning, not just relying on market forces.

The real power lies with citizens themselves, Ibrahim explains. Political elites can abandon democratic ideals, but regular people who depend on democracy most are the ones who can truly defend it.

The Ripple Effect

A panel of experts including leaders from African Policy Research Institute and CARE International agreed that both governments and citizens share responsibility for democracy's struggles. Broken promises on healthcare, infrastructure, and basic services have fueled instability and opened doors for military takeovers.

The encouraging news? Women, youth, and technology are empowering citizens to demand more from their governments. This grassroots energy could drive a more responsive and inclusive democratic system across the region.

The Centre for Democracy and Development has partnered with major organizations like ECOWAS and the African Union since 1997. Their track record shows that sustained effort can make a real difference in advancing democracy and peace.

This new plan recognizes that democracy and development must work together to create lasting change. When people see their lives improving through functioning democratic systems, they become its strongest defenders.