DESPITE Africa’s strong economic growth, only a handful of its countries have managed to make inroads into reducing inequality. In reality, large wealth gaps between the rich and the poor remain, with a middle class that is struggling to stay out of poverty. In light of this, it has been asked how best to achieve inclusive growth, and whether a democratic dividend or deficit is more likely to facilitate it.
Two recent global events in particular have prompted questions about what developmental model is the most effective for Africa to achieve this transformative economic growth. The peaceful and successful transfer of power in Nigeria cemented Africa’s largest economy’s democratic credentials and indicated a new era of political maturity for the country. This "democratic dividend", it is argued by development practitioners, provides a platform from which sustained growth can be achieved. The stability, respect for human rights and rule of law associated with stable democracies...
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