In a new video, Tanzanian Catholic priest and civic leader Father Dr Charles Kitima and researchers from the Nordic Africa Institute discuss the state of democratic participation in Africa and the consequences of shrinking civic and political space.

Across the continent, many citizens continue to face barriers to participation in public and political life. Women, young people, opposition politicians and other groups are often excluded from decision-making processes, while restrictions on freedom of expression can make it increasingly difficult to raise concerns, challenge those in power or advocate for change.

In Who gets to speak? Democracy under pressure in Africa, Father Dr Charles Kitima, Secretary General of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference and a prominent public voice on governance and democratic accountability in Tanzania, reflects on why open public debate is essential for healthy democracies. Drawing on his experience as a religious leader and civic actor, he discusses the role of institutions and citizens in safeguarding democratic participation.

The video also features NAI researchers Diana Højlund Madsen, Shingirai Mtero and Martins Kwazema, who contribute research-based perspectives on political inclusion and exclusion in contemporary African societies. Together, they examine how barriers to participation affect democratic representation, whose voices are heard in public debate, and what is at stake when groups are excluded from political processes.

Combining academic insights with practical experience, the discussion highlights that democracy is not only about elections and institutions, but also about who is able to participate, speak freely and influence public life.