Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 PM (WAT)
Venue: Zoom Online (Register now)

Background and Rationale

Civil–military relations remain a defining factor in the governance and democratic trajectories of Central African states. Across the region, armed forces and security services play influential roles not only in national defense and internal security, but also in political transitions, regime stability, electoral processes, and the management of dissent. While professional, accountable security institutions are essential for state stability, weak civilian oversight and politicization of the military have often undermined democratic consolidation.

In several Central African countries, historical legacies of military dominance, prolonged states of emergency, internal conflicts, and constitutional ambiguities have blurred the boundaries between civilian authority and military power. These dynamics have contributed to challenges such as restricted civic space, contested elections, limited transparency in defense governance, and erosion of public trust in state institutions. At the same time, emerging security threats—ranging from insurgencies and cross-border violence to organized crime—have increased reliance on military actors, further complicating accountability mechanisms.

This webinar seeks to provide a platform for critical reflection on how civil–military relations can be strengthened in ways that enhance democratic accountability while preserving security and stability. By bringing together policymakers, security experts, civil society actors, and researchers, the discussion will explore reform pathways, comparative lessons, and practical strategies relevant to Central Africa.

Objectives of the Webinar

The webinar aims to:

• Examine the current state of civil–military relations in Central Africa and their implications for democratic governance.
• Analyze institutional, legal, and political factors shaping civilian oversight of the military and security services.
• Explore the role of parliaments, courts, civil society, and the media in promoting accountability and transparency in the security sector.
• Identify practical reform options to strengthen professional, non-partisan, and accountable security institutions.
• Foster informed dialogue among stakeholders on balancing security imperatives with democratic norms.

Target Audience

• Policymakers and public officials
• Security practitioners and analysts
• Civil society and human rights organizations
• Think tank researchers and academics
• Development partners and donors
• Students and emerging professionals interested in governance and security

Expected Outcomes

By the end of the webinar, participants are expected to:

• Gain a deeper understanding of civil–military relations and their impact on democracy in Central Africa.
• Identify key institutional and policy gaps in democratic oversight of security forces.
• Learn from comparative experiences and reform efforts within and beyond the region.
• Strengthen networks among policymakers, researchers, and civil society actors.
• Contribute to evidence-based dialogue informing Nkafu’s peace, security, and governance programming.

About the Nkafu Policy Institute

The Nkafu Policy Institute of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation is a leading independent African policy research institution with vision to accelerate Africa’s Economic Transformation. It drives Africa’s prosperity through evidence-informed policymaking, enabling all citizens to thrive in free, fair, democratic, and flourishing economies. Through rigorous analysis, high-impact publications, and inclusive dialogue, Nkafu promotes practical reforms that strengthen governance and enhance Africa’s development trajectory.