The Secretary-General of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL), Ambassador ‘Dapo Oyewole, has emphasized the need for African leaders to work collaboratively to strengthen democratic governance and make it more people-oriented.
Delivering his final speech as a resident Richard von Weizsäcker Fellow at an expert forum organized by the Bertelsmann Foundation in Berlin, Germany, Oyewole spoke on the topic “Strengthening Democracy & Good Governance in Africa in a Changing World Order.” He stressed that African leaders must be proactive and build a resilient economy capable of driving inclusive growth and development.
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He stated:
“Indeed, the world order is evolving; new economic and political alliances are emerging, governance models are being tested, and nations are redefining their roles and partnerships on the global stage. In this reality, Africa cannot afford to be a bystander, a puppet, or merely reactive. We must be proactive and strategic architects of our democratic future, ensuring that governance is not just a concept but a lived experience that delivers development, justice, and inclusive opportunities for our people.”
Oyewole praised recent political developments in Namibia and Senegal, highlighting the ascension of women and a young male leader to the highest offices in these countries.
Beyond holding elections, he said, democratic governance must be defined by job creation, security, justice, dignity, and respect for human rights.
“Despite our myriad challenges on the continent, we are also witnessing an exciting and transformative time in Africa. For example, two women now lead the Republic of Namibia as President and Vice President, while a young leader, not from an influential political background or backed by political kingmakers was democratically elected and sworn in as the President of Senegal. Across the continent, citizens are increasingly demanding transparent, accountable, and effective leadership. Needless to say, we face multifaceted challenges, yet we must recognize and celebrate progress where we see it, like in Namibia and Senegal,” he said.
“However, the real test of democracy is not just in holding elections; it is in building democratic systems that are authentic and responsive, systems that deliver jobs, security, justice, dignity, human rights, and development for our people.”
Oyewole asserted that the future of Africa lies in the hands of its own leaders, who must be competent, efficient, responsive, and strategic in order to drive the necessary change.
“Africa’s future lies not in the hands of the West or the East; it lies in the hands of Africa and its leaders. The decisions made now will shape the decades ahead. It goes without saying that the continent’s future depends on having leadership that serves, not leadership that rules, leadership based on competence and capacity, not on connections, cash, or affiliations. Africa needs leaders who can capably address today’s challenges while shaping a bold and achievable vision for the future. Our prospects for navigating the current geopolitical climate begin and end with leadership.”
“As I conclude my tenure as a Richard von Weizsäcker Fellow at the Robert Bosch Academy in Berlin, this insightful discussion at the Bertelsmann Stiftung reaffirmed my commitment, as Secretary-General of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL), to work with all our leaders, allies, and partners to strengthen legislative institutions across Africa. Our goal is to safeguard democratic values, uphold the rule of law, protect fundamental rights, and ensure that Africa’s parliamentary leaders build effective and responsive legislatures. Only then can we achieve strong and truly representative democracies that deliver development and human security for our people,” Oyewole concluded.
