The first day of the Data for Governance Alliance (D4GA) conference brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, setting the stage for profound discussions on governance, democracy, human rights, and sustainable development in Africa, the day was packed with insightful sessions and thought-provoking debates.

Professor Cheryl Hendricks opened the first day of the 3rd Stakeholders’ Convening on Governance, Democracy, and Human Rights in Africa (Southern Africa Edition) by welcoming participants and urging them to ask critical questions about the challenges facing civil society today. She emphasized the importance of deeper reflection and finding sustainable solutions.

Education: A Cornerstone for Development

A significant portion of Day 1 centered on education as a key to Africa’s future. Speakers underscored that achieving the goals of Agenda 2063—Africa’s vision for transformation—requires significant investment in human capital. Despite progress made since the 1970s, the continent continues to face deep challenges, especially in access to quality education.

Data from UNESCO was highlighted, showing that 20% of African children between the ages of 6 and 11 are not in school, and the number rises sharply as children grow older, with over 60% of young people aged 15 to 17 not attending school. These statistics are deeply concerning, especially as education is not just a universal human right, but a critical factor in poverty reduction, job creation, and fostering leadership for the next generation.

There was a strong call for governments to do more to ensure that every African child receives a quality education, with an emphasis on bridging the gap between those attending elite institutions and those in under-resourced township schools. As one speaker powerfully put it, “We are robbing the continent of its potential when we fail to educate our youth properly.”

Climate Change: A Growing Challenge

Climate change was another significant topic on Day 1, with discussions emphasizing Africa’s disproportionate burden despite its minimal contribution to global emissions. As many on the continent experience severe and unpredictable weather patterns, climate change has also become a key driver of conflicts over resources, especially in already vulnerable communities.

The AU’s 2022-2032 Climate Change Strategy was referenced, but there was consensus that implementation remains a significant hurdle. D4GA’s role in bridging this gap was highlighted as critical, providing the data necessary to track how well governments are adhering to their climate commitments and ensuring that African citizens are informed and engaged in the process.

The discussions reaffirmed that climate change respects no borders, affecting every country and every community. The call to action was clear: we must all play our part in mitigating its effects while ensuring that African voices are heard on the global stage.

Human Rights Under Threat

Day 1 also focused on the state of human rights in Africa, a topic that remains as urgent as ever. While African nations have made significant strides in establishing legal frameworks to protect rights, the gap between policy and practice is often wide. Particularly concerning was the rise in persecution of human rights defenders, especially young women.

The story of Namatai Kwekwe, a young Zimbabwean activist who was detained for her human rights work, resonated with many in the room. She symbolizes a new generation of African activists who face increasingly hostile environments as they fight for justice and democracy.

The message was clear: we cannot afford to be silent when those who defend our rights are under attack. There is a collective responsibility, not only for governments but also for civil society and citizens alike, to protect these rights and ensure that they are fully realized across the continent.

Data as a Tool for Change

Central to the Data for Governance Alliance’s mission is the belief that data can empower citizens and civil society organizations (CSOs) to hold governments accountable. Afrobarometer data has been instrumental in providing insights into how African citizens perceive key issues such as governance, human rights, and education. By equipping CSOs with the right tools and knowledge to analyze and use this data, D4GA is helping to close the critical gap between policy adoption and citizen awareness.

The theme of this year’s convening—education, climate change, transitional justice (TJ), and elections—reflects the growing need for data-driven advocacy in these areas. It is not enough to simply have frameworks in place; citizens must be empowered to understand and engage with these frameworks to hold their governments accountable and push for real, tangible change.

Looking Ahead

As the day came to a close, participants reflected on the significant progress made by the Data for Governance Alliance in its three years of operation. There was also a shared recognition of the immense challenges that still lie ahead. Education, climate change, and human rights are interconnected issues, and addressing them requires a coordinated, data-informed effort from all sectors of society.

The takeaway from Day 1 was clear: Africa’s future depends on our ability to turn data into action. The knowledge and insights generated from platforms like D4GA must be used to push for better governance, stronger democracies, and respect for human rights across the continent.

As we look forward to the rest of the conference, we feel a sense of urgency to address these challenges head-on, but we also feel hope—hope that, by working together and using the tools at our disposal, we can build a better future for Africa.

The event also honored Dr. Webster Zambara’s legacy, reflecting on his significant contributions to governance and human rights and the profound influence he had on those around him.

Date: 09 September 2024

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