The International Conference on Africa’s Democracy (ICAD) 2025 is currently underway at the prestigious NAF Conference Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, drawing over 350 participants from across the continent and the African diaspora. The conference serves as a landmark platform for collaboration and dialogue on strengthening democracy, governance, and sustainable development in Africa.
This high-level event features a diverse assembly of African heads of state, government ministers, faith-based leaders, academics, civil society actors, social innovators, and youth leaders. Delegates have gathered to engage in strategic conversations, policy workshops, and interactive panels on the continent’s democratic challenges and opportunities.
With the theme “Building Resilient Democratic Institutions for Africa’s Future,” ICAD 2025 aims to address key issues such as electoral integrity, civic engagement, corruption, human rights, institutional reform, and inclusive governance. The agenda also explores the intersection between democracy and sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Speaking during the opening plenary, keynote speakers emphasized the urgent need to protect democratic institutions amid rising authoritarian tendencies and civic suppression in parts of the continent. The event also spotlighted the role of young people and digital technology in transforming governance models and political participation in Africa.
Representing LN24 International, Senior Correspondents Yvonne Katsande and Hillary Panashe are on the ground providing exclusive interviews, panel recaps, and behind-the-scenes insights from the conference.
Key Highlights So Far:
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Panel on Electoral Systems: Experts from Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa discussed how to build more credible and transparent elections.
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Youth Inclusion Session: Young leaders called for better representation and digital access to governance platforms.
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Faith and Democracy Dialogue: Religious leaders spoke on promoting peace, justice, and civic responsibility through faith-based initiatives.
The conference continues through the week with additional sessions focused on media freedom, constitutional reforms, regional cooperation, and post-conflict democratic rebuilding.
ICAD 2025 is widely regarded as a critical forum at a time when the future of democracy in Africa faces both significant risks and unprecedented potential.
