African Elections Tracking and Analysis

This project seeks to track, analyze, and report on elections across Africa, many of which shape the continent’s trajectory in global politics in the coming decades.

This project seeks to track, analyze, and report on elections across Africa—many of which will define the continent’s political trajectory and influence global dynamics in the decade ahead. It will also examine the broader implications of these outcomes for U.S. engagement with individual countries and Africa as a whole.

This project is made possible through the generous support of Open Society Foundations.

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Photo: MICHELE SPATARI/AFP via Getty Images

Photo: MICHELE SPATARI/AFP via Getty Images

False Choices: Balancing Democracy and Development in U.S. Africa Policy

The shift in U.S. foreign policy to prioritize commercial diplomacy over democracy support presents a false dichotomy. As African partners adjust to the U.S. retreat as an advocate for democracy, this approach risks long-term consequences for U.S.-Africa relations.

Commentary by Oge Onubogu and Khasai Makhulo — October 21, 2025

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False Choices: Balancing Democracy and Development in U.S. Africa Policy

The shift in U.S. foreign policy to prioritize commercial diplomacy over democracy support presents a false dichotomy. As African partners adjust to the U.S. retreat as an advocate for democracy, this approach risks long-term consequences for U.S.-Africa relations.

Commentary by Oge Onubogu and Khasai Makhulo — October 21, 2025

Africa’s Complicated Democratic Landscape

Africa’s upcoming year of elections signals both great promise and potential peril. Despite its growing population’s increasing demands for responsive governance, economic opportunity, and equitable treatment, many of their aspirations remain unmet.

Report by Cameron Hudson, Mvemba Phezo Dizolele, Khasai Makhulo, and Darrel Loyd — June 17, 2025

A Shift in Power: Botswana’s Historic Election

The CSIS Africa Program will host a panel discussion featuring Kagiso Molathwa and Thapelo Ndlovu to explore the drivers behind Botswana’s recent political shift and its implications for the region.

Event — November 14, 2024

Into Africa

From a Jail Cell to the Presidential Palace

Hawa Ba, Director of Core Partners in Open Society Foundations, joins Mvemba to share her impressions from Senegal's tumultuous election.

Podcast Episode by Mvemba Phezo Dizolele — April 18, 2024

Photo: CSIS
Into Africa

Assessing Tinubu’s First 150 Days in Office

Fyneface Dumnamene joins to assess President Bola Tinubu's first 150 days in office and the economic challenges facing the administration.

Podcast Episode by Mvemba Phezo Dizolele — September 7, 2023

Photo: CSIS
Into Africa

Takeaways From Nigeria’s Elections

Amaka Anku, Practice Head for Africa at the Eurasia Group, joins us to discuss Nigeria's elections.

Podcast Episode by Mvemba Phezo Dizolele — March 10, 2023

Photo: CSIS

Nigeria Elections 2023: What To Watch For

As Nigeria gears up for its general elections on February 25, please join CSIS experts for a discussion on the main political contenders and key issues driving voters, from insecurity to corruption and unemployment.

Event — February 21, 2023