Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has warned that one of the greatest threats to democracy in Africa today is the struggle for basic survival, which he terms “the Next Meal.”
He stressed that the best form of democracy is one that not only provides for its citizens but also ensures that no one is left behind.
Speaking on the importance of tangible outcomes in democratic governance, Dr Bawumia emphasised that democracy should not be reduced to institutional structures alone but must deliver real improvements in people’s lives.
“We cannot talk about democracy in the abstract. It must be about outcomes that improve people’s lives,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
He pointed to the alarming poverty statistics in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the World Bank reports that two-thirds of the global population living in extreme poverty reside.
Bawumia argued that these figures underscore the urgency for African leaders to address the growing poverty crisis, as failure to do so threatens not only the economy but also the very foundations of democracy.
“The priority for many Africans is survival. When people are struggling to secure their next meal, democracy becomes a secondary concern,” he explained.
Dr. Bawumia referenced the 2024 World Bank report on Nigeria, which reveals that over half of the Nigerian population live in multidimensional poverty. He argued that such widespread poverty undermines political integrity, as those focused on fulfilling their basic needs are less likely to engage with the political system or trust democratic processes.
“The best democracy is one that delivers on its promises,” he said. “When citizens do not have to worry about their survival, they can more fully embrace democratic values and engage meaningfully in the political process.”
In conclusion, Dr. Bawumia stressed that the future of democracy in Africa depends on effective governance that prioritises the welfare of its people.
“Only when people are assured of their basic needs can they fully embrace the values of democracy,” he concluded.
