Power Without Brakes: How the Absence of Checks and Balances is Derailing Africa’s Development

Across the African continent, the vision of progress is often bold and inspiring—new highways, mega dams, tech hubs, social reforms, industrial parks, and dreams of modern cities. Yet, many of these projects stall halfway, fail to deliver on promises, or collapse under the weight of corruption, mismanagement, and inefficiency.

One key reason for this chronic underperformance is a systemic issue that goes deeper than poor planning or lack of funds: the absence of strong checks and balances.

The Problem Isn’t Always Money—It’s Power Without Oversight

African nations are not necessarily poor in resources. Many are rich in minerals, agriculture, talent, and ambition. International aid, development loans, and foreign investments flow into the continent in billions. However, without effective oversight, these resources often disappear into the pockets of a few or are used for personal or political gain rather than public benefit.

In many countries, executive power operates unchecked, with little to no meaningful challenge from the judiciary or legislature. Parliaments that should hold presidents and ministers accountable are often weakened by political patronage. Courts that should be independent are influenced, threatened, or underfunded. Auditing bodies and anti-corruption agencies are politicized or powerless.

This lopsided power structure leads to misallocation of resources, stalled infrastructure, inflated contracts, and poorly executed policies—all of which stall real development.

Case in Point: Projects That Promise, Then Vanish

We’ve seen it too many times:

• A new hospital project is launched with fanfare, but remains a construction site for a decade.
• Roads are budgeted and re-budgeted, but barely stretch beyond city limits.
• Large public procurement contracts are awarded to shadow companies linked to political elites.
• Vital reforms in education or healthcare are announced, only to be quietly abandoned without explanation.

The absence of independent monitoring and accountability mechanisms means no one is held responsible when these projects fail. Citizens are left frustrated, while leaders continue unbothered.

Why Checks and Balances Matter

Checks and balances are not just bureaucratic formalities—they are the foundation of sustainable governance. They ensure that no branch of government becomes too powerful, that public funds are used as intended, and that leaders can be questioned and replaced when they fail.

Where they exist and function well—whether in Ghana’s competitive elections, South Africa’s relatively independent judiciary, or Botswana’s stable institutions—there tends to be more transparency, stability, and better outcomes for citizens.

What Must Change

Strengthen Institutions, Not Just Individuals

Africa doesn’t need strongmen; it needs strong systems. Building independent institutions—parliaments, courts, audit agencies, civil service commissions—is key.

Encourage Civic Vigilance and Media Freedom

A free press and engaged civil society can act as watchdogs, exposing inefficiencies and mobilizing citizens to demand accountability.

Decentralize Power

Centralized systems often lead to unaccountable governance. Giving more power and resources to local governments—along with oversight—can improve service delivery and responsiveness.

Reward Results, Not Loyalty

Political appointments and contracts should be based on competence and merit, not allegiance. Performance-based systems promote professionalism and results.

No Progress Without Accountability

If Africa is to unlock its full potential, the continent must take the issue of governance seriously. Accountability is not a luxury—it is the engine of development. 

Without checks and balances, every brilliant project is at risk of becoming just another expensive failure. It is time to build systems that outlast politics, resist corruption, and truly serve the people.