How We Make Way for Peace and Democracy Across Africa

As we look forward to the International Day of Peace, we at PeaceOpoly are proud to play a small role in a very big world. Were on a journey to ensure there is peace as Africa brings bear the tenets of democracy amidst its many challenges, and technology is our ticket.

Just this week, the United Nations converged for their 71st General Assembly in New York City. Its important that Africa is a salient issue on the agenda. Africa as a continent is fraught with many problems hindering the practice of democracy. It often appears the continent is 100 years behind in practicing democracy. While democracy has been defined as the government of the people, for the people and by the people, this definition that has been misconstrued by many Africans as to who the people really are.

So Whats the Problem?

The barriers to democracy are deeply rooted in culture and in practice. Hardly does an African leave office without tweaking the constitution for personal gains, or at least is willing to instigate pandemonium just to try. The recent elections in Zambia and Gabon are examples that easily come to mind.

In addition, women are in essence barred from participating in governance. You would be hard pressed to find a woman ruling an African country, except for Sireaf Ellen Johnson of Liberia. This is really where culture creates significant barriers. Many men in African countries do not consider women as equals, even seeing women unable to handle sensitive positions. This worldview plays out unconsciously anytime a woman runs for a position in Africa.

The Formula for Peace: Technology and Civic Education

This is where PeaceOpoly comes in. Complaining about the situation is not an option for PeaceOpoly; instead, we are eager to attack these problems head-on. We consider civic education as the foundation of democracy and know that appropriate technology, like the Internet, empowers and provides an equal playing field for people all over the world. PeaceOpoly was created to cultivate this idea that civic education and technology are the key to advancing democracy.

The Internet, cell phones and related technologies are already affecting social, economic and political institutions globally, particularly in nascent democracies. From promoting citizen advocacy to increasing government accountability, anyone from individual citizens to players in the public sector are provided a medium through PeaceOpoly to enhance communication and improve access to important information. Were proud to say this model lends a hand in creating a strengthened democratic processes and more effective governance.

Relentless Focus on Empowerment

Citizen involvement is critical for enhancing democratic governance, improving service delivery and fostering empowerment. The ability of actors citizens, civil society organizations and others to hold the state accountable and make it responsive to their needs is what PeaceOpoly has championed for some time now.

PeaceOpoly has engendered the participation of young people through our forums, which is fundamental to the success of a democratic society. For instance, we have made our presence felt in various universities in Nigeria today.

In particular, women and girls have a place at PeaceOpoly. PeaceOpoly has vehemently given belief and hope to women and girls. PeaceOpoly has empowered them with technology, and in turn, has prepared them so they can compete effectively in all spheres of life.

We know our model works, and we know its as critical as ever to keep pressing on. Heres to all the other organizations and individuals fighting for peace across the world.

Paul Iregbenu is PeaceOpoly Forum Administrator

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