Publications

Sub-Saharan Africa and the paradox of political development
Book: Resetting Democracy: The South Side of Global Deliberation
Stop_02/Publication_01
This stop, examines the paradox of political development in sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on deliberative democracy as a tool to foster citizen participation, inclusion, and accountability in the region. Evelyn Dan Epelle, a journalist and consultant, explores the challenges and opportunities of democracy in Africa, highlighting initiatives such as ActHub in Nigeria and Africa’s Voices in Kenya.
ActHub promotes accountability and citizen engagement at the local level through participatory budgets and simplified fiscal data. On the other hand, Africa’s Voices uses radio and accessible technologies to connect citizens with decision-makers in Kenya. Both cases reflect how local initiatives can address issues like corruption, lack of political education, and social exclusion.
The document also discusses the influence of colonial history, traditional governance structures, and international experiences in shaping democracy in Africa. Despite the challenges, it highlights a positive outlook for democracy in the region, emphasizing the importance of education, unity, and strengthening political institutions.

Is a Nigerian Journalist at KAFTAN TV and Communications Researcher at Baobab Consulting. She is also a Board Member at the Pan-African Strategic and Policy Research Group (PANAFSTRAG) where she coordinates African policy initiatives as Director of Global Communications and Digital Media.
Sub-Saharan Africa and the paradox of political development
Book: Resetting Democracy: The South Side of Global Deliberation
- Introduction. p. 5.
- Deliberative Democracy in Sub-Saharan Africa. p. 6.
- ActHub and Accountability for Good Governance in Nigeria. p. 11.
- Founding ActHub. p. 12.
- People and Networks for Deliberative Democracy in Nigeria. p. 15.
- Leading Deliberative Democracy Initiatives in Nigeria. p. 18.
- Africa’s Voices Innovates for Deliberative Democracy in Kenya Using Radio. p. 21.
- Radio as a Tool for Social Change. p. 22.
- Samuel’s Journey to Africa’s Voices. p. 25.
- Foreign Influences & Kenyan Politics. p. 28.
- A Positive Outlook for Democracy in Sub-Saharan Africa. p. 34.