Planning for next generation critical

Preparing for generational change is an important part of leadership in any nation. Africa’s first half-century of independence has been a tragic example of how the failure to do so can lead to internal strife, stoke ethnic tensions, and frustrate the development of democratic practice.

Despite a wealth of cultural practices that ensured new generations of leaders were taught, tested and trusted with decision-making, when it came to the creation of African-majority governments five decades ago, the grooming of serious replacements for the first batch of leaders was avoided in favour of propping up cronies committed to ensuring ethnic hegemony.