This paper examines the recent upsurge of military interventions across the African continent. This study seeks to unravel whether these interventions represent a potential catalyst for substantial progress in Africa’s political and economic landscape or merely to perpetuate entrenched practices. At its core, the research delves into the pivotal choice between revolutionary upheaval and incremental reforms as mechanisms for driving positive change.
It probes whether military interventions in African nations signal a response to the perceived failures of existing political systems and if they hold the promise of delivering enduring advancements. The investigation encompasses a thorough analysis of the historical backdrop of African politics, dissecting the intricate interplay between revolutionary zeal and pragmatic reform efforts through to the concepts of good governance and democracy. It assesses the consequences of recent military actions on governance, democracy, and socio-economic development across the continent.
By employing a qualitative research approach and interviewing three professionals sampled with the use of purposive sampling, this paper brought to the fore, pertinent issues contributing to the upsurge of military coups on the African continent such as corruption, greed and mismanagement of the economy. To further validate these responses, this paper engaged in the use of secondary sources to triangulate and ensure coherence, reliability and validity.
The findings of the study, pointed to the fact that, for Africa to achieve and make great strides towards political and economic development, then it has to be inclined towards reforms. Thus, by subjecting their constitutions to relevant reforms to reflect the dynamic landscape of the continent’s political and economic terrains, development will be fostered. Through this, the issue of revolution will be minimized if not stopped entirely on the African continent.
The study then aimed to illuminate the paths available to African nations on their intricate journey towards a brighter future. It concluded whether or not, there is an African dream. A dream that leads to the restoration of hope for the ordinary African. A dream that presents a continent with a conducive environment that supports the aspirations of Africans towards personal growth and career development.
Keywords: Military intervention, Democracy, Good governance, African dream, Reforms and Revolution