Editor's note

In the wake of the ousting of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, experts are turning their attention to the broader ramifications across Africa. Jakkie Cilliers is predicting continued turbulence in large part because Africa remains poor and young, but also because it’s growing and dynamic. Yvonne Rowa also warns of a period of prolonged uncertainty, and Mohamed Diatta says the whole crisis reveals the shortcomings of African intergovernmental organisations.

Alexandra Hansen

Section Editor: Health + Medicine

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French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to French counter-terrorism forces in northern Mali, in May. EPA/Christophe Petit Tesson

What drives instability in Africa and what can be done about it

Jakkie Cilliers, University of Pretoria

Some African countries present a facade of democracy. The absence of substantive democracy is contributing to instability on the continent.

Politics + Society

Science + Technology