State Recognition And Democratization In Sub-saharan Africa

This book explores the link between the present wave of democratization and contemporary state recognition of traditional authority in sub-Saharan Africa.As democratization suffers setbacks in Africa, an exploration of traditional authorities' role in African politics is well-timed. By using historical case studies together with contemporary ones, the volume works to extend its shelf-life beyond a one to two year window.Being critical and empirically grounded, the book explores the complex, often counter-balancing consequences of the involvement of traditional authority in the wave of democratization and liberal-style state-building that has rolled over sub-Saharan Africa in the past decade.

Review:

'The book is valuable in its contribution to understanding post-1900 democratic development in Africa.' - Joyleen Steyn-Kotze, Politikon