Note: The Ebb and Flow of the Democratization Process in Africa

Abstract

Democracy and democratization are two faces of a coin, and democracy is unattainable in the absence of the democratization process. This note deals with some salient points regarding the processes, challenges and obstacles of democratization in Africa since the early 1960s. The roles of traditional institutions for democratization in Africa have also been highlighted.  I argue that the democratization process in Africa is characterized by ebb and flow. There are various challenges and obstacles to democratization in spite of strong aspirations. Yet, Africa should strive hard to overcome these challenges and obstacles since it has no choice other than democratization.