Ending the cycle: Military takeovers in Africa

A recent attempted coup in Sierra Leone has once again brought the issue of military takeovers in Africa to the forefront. The government in Freetown has revealed that the attacks on several locations in the capital were led by bodyguards of former President Ernest Bai Koroma, although he has not been directly linked to the plot. Investigations are ongoing as the country grapples with the aftermath of the failed coup. The fundamental issue at the heart of recurring military takeovers in Africa, particularly in West Africa, is poverty. Dennis Amachree, CEO of Zoomlens Security Solutions, emphasized that the level of poverty in West Africa surpasses that of other regions on the continent. The lack of development and opportunities exacerbates the discontent among the population, leading to instability and unrest. Leaders in West Africa, according to Amachree, need to prioritize addressing the root causes of poverty and inequity to prevent future attempts to overthrow the government. The situation in Sierra Leone is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by many countries in West Africa. Despite the potential for economic growth and stability, the region continues to grapple with high levels of poverty and underdevelopment. This ongoing cycle of instability underscores the urgent need for strategic and sustainable solutions to address the underlying issues plaguing these nations.