Why Western Political Systems Don’t Work for Africa

For centuries, Africa had its own systems of governance. These systems were built on consensus, dialogue, and unity, focusing on the well-being of the entire community. However, colonization brought new political ideas—capitalism and socialism—that were never designed for Africa’s unique cultures and realities. As we continue to see the cracks in these Western systems, it’s time for Africa to embrace its own form of governance: democracy by consensus, rooted in our history and traditions.

The Wisdom of Precolonial African Governance

Long before colonization, African societies thrived on systems of governance tailored to their way of life. For example:

The Ashanti Confederacy (Ghana): Leadership was based on consultation and consensus. The Ashanti king (Asantehene) made decisions only after discussing them with his council of elders and representatives from different clans.

The Igbo People (Nigeria): The Igbo practiced a decentralized system where villages were self-governed. Decisions were made collectively, ensuring that everyone’s voice was heard, regardless of gender or status.

The Zulu Kingdom (South Africa): Leaders like King Shaka Zulu emphasized communal discussions and collective responsibility, fostering unity and shared purpose.

These systems worked because they respected the diversity of their people and valued collective decision-making. Leaders weren’t rulers—they were servants of the community.

How Western Political Ideas Disrupted African Governance

When colonizers imposed their systems, they disregarded Africa’s existing structures. Two major ideologies—capitalism and socialism—became the dominant political models after independence, but neither aligned with Africa’s realities:

1. Capitalism’s Challenges: Capitalism focuses on wealth creation, but in Africa, it has widened the gap between the rich and the poor. Take Nigeria, for instance. The country has vast oil wealth, yet millions of people live in poverty. This happens because capitalism prioritizes profits over people, leaving the vulnerable behind.

2. Socialism’s Struggles: After independence, countries like Tanzania embraced socialism under leaders like Julius Nyerere. His “Ujamaa” policy promoted collective farming and communal living. While it was rooted in African values, it struggled to succeed due to poor implementation, economic challenges, and lack of global support.

3. Divisive Elections: Western democracy, with its “winner-takes-all” model, has often caused division in Africa. Kenya’s 2007 elections are a painful reminder—violence erupted after disputed results, leading to over 1,000 deaths. Such systems fuel ethnic tensions and create instability, which goes against Africa’s tradition of fostering unity.

Why Democracy by Consensus Is the Answer

Democracy by consensus offers a solution that aligns with Africa’s traditions and values. It is not about importing ideas from elsewhere but about returning to what has always worked for us.

1. Inclusive Decision-Making: In consensus-based systems, decisions are made through dialogue until everyone agrees. This ensures that minority groups are not left out, unlike majority-rule systems that often marginalize them.

2. Unity and Stability: By focusing on agreement rather than competition, democracy by consensus reduces political tensions. For example, Botswana has been one of Africa’s most stable democracies, partly because its traditional values of consultation and consensus were integrated into its modern political system.

3. Cultural Authenticity: Consensus-based governance reflects African values of community, respect, and collective responsibility. It resonates with concepts like ubuntu, the idea that “I am because we are,” which emphasizes interconnectedness and mutual care.

Learning from History

Africa’s history shows us the dangers of ignoring our traditions. For example:

The Rwandan Genocide (1994): The divisive political structures left by colonial powers played a role in the ethnic tensions that led to the genocide. Today, Rwanda is rebuilding using traditional systems like Gacaca courts, which focus on reconciliation and community justice.

South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (1995): After apartheid, South Africa used dialogue and consensus to heal and move forward, proving that African methods can solve even the toughest challenges.

Building a Governance System for Africa

If Africa is to thrive, we must stop copying systems that don’t fit our realities and start building on our traditions. Here’s how we can do it:

1. Revive Traditional Practices: Governments should work with traditional leaders to integrate consensus-based practices into modern systems. For instance, councils of elders could play a formal role in advising parliaments or mediating conflicts.

2. Educate the Next Generation: Schools and universities should teach African governance systems and their successes. This will help young Africans value their heritage and understand the importance of consensus in leadership.

3. Promote Pan-African Unity: Regional bodies like the African Union should champion democracy by consensus as a uniquely African contribution to governance. Sharing stories of success, like Botswana’s model, can inspire other nations to follow suit.

Africa doesn’t need to copy Western systems to succeed. We have our own rich history of governance that prioritizes unity, inclusivity, and community well-being. By embracing democracy by consensus, we can create a system that works for all Africans, respects our diversity, and builds a brighter, more stable future. It’s time to return to our roots and take control of our destiny.