In January, AfricTivistes launched the Champion of Governance and Democracy initiative to contribute to promoting democratic governance in Africa through an open and citizen-driven distinction. After a thorough process of screening, pre-selection, jury voting, and public voting, the identity of the laureate will be revealed during the Africa Drive for Democracy Indaba on 24 November in Johannesburg, South Africa.

On 23 and 24 January, the Selection Committee convened to shortlist five nominees considered for the AfricTivistes Champion of Governance and Democracy Award.

This distinction aims to promote the values of good governance, democracy, and respect for institutions in Africa, particularly at a time when democratic gains are under threat in several countries due to the resurgence of coups, rising authoritarianism, and constitutional manipulations.

The AfricTivistes Champion of Governance and Democracy award thus seeks to uphold the fundamental principles of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance (ACDEG). It recognises a public or political figure, or a public institution, that has made a significant impact on the democratisation and good governance processes in their country between 2012 (the year ACDEG came into effect) and 2023. Only the 38 countries that ratified the Governance Charter were considered.

A rigorous pre-selection process was conducted by a jury of experts and civil society actors from across Africa. The selection process for the nominees was carried out in three phases:

1. A consultative committee to validate the Terms of Reference and approve the approach.
2. A jury comprising the Selection Committee and the Consultative Committee to develop selection criteria based on the principles of ACDEG and propose a list of five nominees.
3. An open and inclusive public vote to identify the winner.

The selection criteria include respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, adherence to the rule of law, peace, security, stability and development, as well as participatory democracy and inclusion.

The five nominees are:

• Thuli Madonsela, Public Protector from 2009 to 2016 in South Africa
• The Supreme Court of Kenya, represented by its then President, Justice Emeritus David Maraga (from 19 October 2016 to 20 May 2021)
• The Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission of The Gambia, represented by its President, Dr Lamin Sise (2018-2021)
• President Hage Geingob of Namibia (deceased, 1941-2024)
• Justice Irene Chirwa Mambilima of the Supreme Court of Zambia (deceased, 1952-2021)

Public voting has been open on the platform since June and will close on 18 November. The public votes will be combined with those of the jury members.

The official announcement of the Champion will take place at the closing ceremony of the Africa Drive for Democracy Indaba on the evening of 24 November. AfricTivistes, together with partner organisations, is co-hosting the Indaba on 23 and 24 November, under the theme: “Rediscovering Africa’s Democratic Soul: Renewing Commitment to Democracy.”

It is important to recall that the Champion initiative is implemented by AfricTivistes as part of the Charter Project Africa, which supports the implementation and adoption of ACDEG. The Champion initiative is co-led by partner civil society organisations, represented in the Consultative Committee and the Selection Committee.

For any additional information, please send an email to: info@africtivistes.org.