Presidential Longevity and Development in Africa: A Comparative Analysis of Cameroon, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, Botswana, and Ghana
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajahs.v5i1.6347Keywords:
Africa, Botswana, Cameroon, Development, Governance, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Presidential Longevity, UgandaAbstract
Using Cameroon, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, Botswana, and Ghana as case studies, this article examines the impact of presidential longevity on governance and development in Africa. It investigates whether long-term presidential leadership promotes development and good governance in Africa. The Mo Ibrahim Index of African Governance, World Bank GDP per capita data, and the UNDP Human Development Index were among the secondary data sources used in the study. This study was carried out using a comparative desk review methodology. The findings demonstrate that long presidential terms do not always result in effective governance and positive development outcomes. The results demonstrate that while resource-rich states with long-term presidents frequently have high GDP per capita, they fall short in terms of governance and human development. However, nations like Ghana and Botswana that experience frequent changes in leadership typically perform better in terms of development and governance. In order to promote sustainable development and sound governance, the study emphasizes the state of democratic accountability and sound leadership transitions.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Mumuni Abdul Wahid, Abdoukabirr Daffeh
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