The rise of authoritarian nationalism and general economic malaise are straining democratic governance around the world—including in Africa. Countries such as Burundi, Congo, and Ethiopia have experienced an erosion of democratic institutions, fraudulent elections, and violent upheavals—in contrast to peaceful power transfers in others, such as Ghana and Nigeria. Many African countries are experiencing an ebb in confidence regarding their governments’ capacity to improve living standards and reduce insecurity—often as a consequence of corruption and dysfunctional institutions. How can Africa overcome obstacles to democratic governance? And what does the future hold for the continent?