Dossier

Youth & democracy in Africa

Young Voices on the Rise

On the African continent, 77% of the population is under 35. In addition to numerous COVID-19 restrictions, the last three years have been equally marked by widespread repression of dissents in many African countries – including violent crackdowns on peaceful protests, attacks on media, as well as human rights defenders. By examining the role of youth in democracy and human rights movements from a wide range of perspectives, this dossier aims to amplify and spread knowledge about the political involvement of youth in their respective regions and, subsequently, to contribute to improving international support mechanisms for ‘Young Advocates For Democracy’ (YA4D).

Contributions from South Africa

The triangle project video: Young black person

Empowering young Black people in the Leadership Programme

Video
The Thought Leadership Programme at Triangle Project was identified to address the historical legacies of Apartheid South Africa. Young Black LGBTQI+ people in South Africa still bear the brunt of our history and do not have innovative and structured places to create social mobility to participate in the democratic agenda. These young LGBTQI+ people are often left out in contributing to change and governance due to the lack of a good civic education which not only plagues South Africa but the African continent at large.  
By Triangle Project

Contributions from Nigeria

Contributions from Kenya

Video "Missing voices network Kenya". Policeman holding a gun.

"We are all part of the system and therefore can be part of the solution."

Music video
The "Missing Voices" human rights network from Kenya which grew out of the Police Reforms Working Group Kenya (PRWG-K) is fighting on the front line to end the vicious cycle of police abuse of power. They partnered with Juliani, Flawless Konya, Mugureness, Anthem Republiq, and Abudabi Tembekali to create ‘Uwaga’ a music video aimed to inspire Kenyans to stand up against police brutality by illustrating the power of unity and re-imagining a nation whose principles are founded on equality and justice. 
By Missing voices network - Kenya
Group of Young Kenyan Artists

A sad state of affairs for young politically minded artists in Kenya

Commentary
Art can be a disruptive form of expression and a powerful tool to shift existing political and social realities. However, in Kenya, the creative industry is often corrupt, and the government ignores many young artists, especially those who speak up for democracy and human rights. The Kenyan psychologist and human rights defender Salima Macharia shares some insights gained through her daily work with young artivists (artist + activist) from informal settlements in Nairobi.
By Salima Macharia

Contributions from Senegal

Video "Hope on the horizon". Singing black woman.

Hope on the Horizon

Music video
The ‘Hope on the Horizon’ music video depicts the Africa that the young artists would like to see: A strong, united, prosperous Africa. The ‘artivists’ (artists + activists) creatively remind us of things that are holding back Africa’s economic take-off and the elements on which it must rely for its sustainable development. The music video is composed by ACAN (African Creative Action Network) in collaboration with Africans Rising.
By African Creative Action Network (ACAN)
Contact
"Young Voices on the Rise" from other Continents
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