The Arab Spring: Implications for Africa

Abstract

The Arab Spring is an ongoing wave of demonstrations and protests in the Arab world, which began in December 2010. Popular protests have led to the overthrow of regimes in Tunisia and Egypt; a civil war in Libya; civil uprisings in Bahrain, Syria and Yemen; major protests in Algeria, Jordan, Morocco and Oman; and minor protests in a number of other countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This study examined the political, economic, social and security aspects of the African continent with respect to the implications of the Arab Spring that recently plagued the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region. Exploratory research design was used to examine the implications of the Arab Spring for Africa. The needed data and information for this study was primarily gathered through secondary sources. The exploratory nature of this study was a factor with regards to primary data sources. In-depth readings were done and vital lessons from them were inculcated into this study. Thematic data analysis indicated among other things that, indeed the Arab Spring has a greater influence on the political dynamics of Africa than on the social sphere. Again, the existing weakness in the economies, coupled with the rippling effect of weapon proliferation due to the Arab Spring has grave socio – political implications for Africa. Furthermore, social media plays a less likely role in democratization in sub Saharan Africa than it did in the Arab spring. A number of recommendations are made in light of the findings.