Africa Connect: An APC Exclusive: Centring the Citizen - Rethinking Leadership in Africa Amid Strongman Politics

Africa Connect is a podcast series aimed at exploring African topics around democracy. It runs on the theme: Deepening Democracy through information.About the GuestsIn this Mandela Day special from the Africa Policy Circle (APC) cohort, host Thelma Nyarhi, Researcher at DDP, is joined by Dr. Singo Mwachofi, Politics lecturer at the University of Nairobi and Deputy Director of SRIC in Kenya, and Gray Kalindekafe, Executive Director of NICE in Malawi. Together, they explore how African leadership can evolve to truly center the citizen.About the EpisodeDr. Mwachofi analyzes the persistence of strongman politics, its impact on democratic institutions, and the role of global powers and regional bodies in shaping governance. He advocates for constitutional reforms that prioritize citizen agency.Kalindekafe discusses the challenges citizens face in holding leaders accountable, highlighting the power of youth activism, digital media, and community-driven movements. He emphasizes the role of NGOs in promoting civic education and digital literacy.In a joint dialogue, the guests reflect on ethical leadership, sustainable reforms, and the hope they see in Africa’s rising citizen-led momentum for change.