The Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) convened a side event at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) on “Strengthening Democratic Foundations in Africa: From Old to Emerging Forms of Cooperation.” The event brought together government officials, policy experts, civil society organisations, and international donors to discuss the state of democracy in Africa and map practical pathways for democratic revitalisation.

In his opening remarks, KDI Executive Director Bukola Idowu underscored Africa’s decisive moment: citizens remain deeply committed to democracy, yet dissatisfaction with its delivery is widening. With over 70 per cent of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under 30, young people embody both the urgency and opportunity for reform. Idowu called for a shift from transactional cooperation to transformational partnerships, where governments, civil society, and international allies co-create democratic ecosystems that deliver accountability, civic freedoms, and inclusion. Read the full report