Here are critical Africa’s upcoming elections in 2025

In 2025, the African continent is poised for a politically charged year, with more than ten countries gearing up for major elections. According to analysts, standout contests in nations such as Tanzania, Cameroon, Gabon and Côte d’Ivoire have both regional and global implications as they head to the polls amid questions about democratic progress, governance and stability.
The spotlight on Tanzania, for example, reveals two major trends: the ruling party has held power for decades, while opposition space is beginning to open—yet questions persist about how open and credible the upcoming electoral process will be.
In Cameroon, the elections are taking place amid long-standing rule by the same political establishment, raising concerns about genuine competition and reform.
International SOS
For Côte d’Ivoire and Malawi, the stakes include not just who wins, but whether the outcome signals a turning point in political accountability, youth engagement and economic inclusion. These contests come while regional bodies such as African Union, and electoral-watch organisations warn of risks ranging from limited transparency and voter suppression to security-related disruptions.
The implications of these elections extend beyond national borders. For Kenya and the broader East African region, shifts in neighbouring states may influence trade, investment and regional diplomacy. Democratically credible elections could strengthen regional cooperation, bolster investor confidence and support deeper integration. Conversely, elections that collapse into post-vote instability could trigger broader ripple-effects including refugee flows, economic shocks and destabilised supply chains. Observers emphasise that the next few months will test whether 2025 becomes a year of meaningful democratic renewal—or one in which entrenched power structures further consolidate their hold.
African Arguments
As Kenya watches these electoral dynamics unfold, the question remains: will these elections signal transformation or merely reinforce the status quo?