Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has cautioned that the survival struggle faced by many Africans poses a significant threat to democracy on the continent. He highlighted the critical need for democratic governance to deliver tangible benefits that uplift citizens and ensure that no one is left behind.
Speaking on the essence of democracy, Dr. Bawumia argued that it should transcend institutional structures and focus on improving the lives of the people. “We cannot talk about democracy in the abstract. It must be about outcomes that improve people’s lives,” he stated.
The Link Between Poverty and Democracy
Dr. Bawumia cited alarming poverty statistics in Sub-Saharan Africa, pointing out that the region accounts for two-thirds of the global population living in extreme poverty, according to the World Bank. He stressed that widespread poverty undermines political participation and trust in democratic systems, as people prioritize meeting basic survival needs over engaging with governance.
“The priority for many Africans is survival. When people are struggling to secure their next meal, democracy becomes a secondary concern,” Dr. Bawumia explained.
Referencing the 2024 World Bank report on Nigeria, he noted that over half of Nigeria’s population lives in multidimensional poverty. He argued that such conditions weaken the foundations of democracy, making it harder for citizens to engage meaningfully in the political process or trust democratic institutions.
Delivering on Democracy’s Promises
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that democracy must deliver on its promises by addressing the pressing needs of citizens, particularly poverty alleviation. “The best democracy is one that delivers on its promises,” he asserted.
He explained that when citizens are assured of their basic needs, they are more likely to embrace democratic values and engage constructively in governance. However, widespread poverty erodes trust in political systems and discourages active participation in democratic processes.
Call to Action for African Leaders
Dr. Bawumia urged African leaders to prioritize effective governance that ensures the welfare of their citizens, arguing that this is the only path to preserving and strengthening democracy on the continent.
“Only when people are assured of their basic needs can they fully embrace the values of democracy,” he concluded.
This call for action serves as a reminder that democracy is not an end in itself but a means to improve the lives of citizens and secure a brighter future for Africa.
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