A Case for Military Leadership in Africa: A Historical and Strategic Imperative for Liberation and Development

By Ngembeni Wa Namaso*

In the discourse surrounding leadership in Africa, the prevailing notion has been that civilian leaders are preferable to military ones. This idea is often framed within the context of neoliberal agendas that prioritize certain models of capitalist economic systems, which may not serve Africa’s diverse, complex needs. However, this view not only oversimplifies the dynamics of leadership but also misrepresents history and fails to consider the unique challenges Africa faces today. Contrary to the dominant narrative, military leadership is not inherently detrimental; rather, it may be a necessary pathway for liberation and national development, particularly in an era defined by global inequalities, terrorism, and internal conflicts.

Military Leadership: A Tradition Rooted in History

To dismiss military leaders outright as unqualified or inherently despotic is to ignore the historical and cultural realities of Africa and many other parts of the world. Across African empires, such as ancient Egypt, Mali, and Great Zimbabwe, leadership often arose from military prowess and strategic acumen. In these societies, military leaders were tasked with ensuring the security, prosperity, and unity of their people, and their leadership was respected as both necessary and legitimate.

For instance, the rise of Sundiata Keita, the founder of the Mali Empire, was rooted in his military victories, which consolidated the empire and brought about an era of stability and cultural flourishing. Similarly, Emperor Menelik II of Ethiopia not only defended his country against European colonization but also expanded and modernized Ethiopia. These historical examples show that military leaders have historically played a crucial role in shaping Africa’s political, economic, and cultural landscapes.

In other parts of the world, such as in ancient Rome and medieval Japan, military leaders (e.g., Augustus and the Samurai shogunate) also served as effective rulers who ushered in periods of prosperity, scientific advancement, and social stability. These examples suggest that the idea of military leaders as mere despots or oppressors is not universally applicable. Rather, military leadership often stems from the reality of needing a strong, disciplined, and capable leader who can ensure the survival of a nation in turbulent times.

The Neoliberal Agenda and Its Limitations for Africa

The global emphasis on civilian, neoliberal leadership often rests on the assumption that capitalist economic models — rooted in free-market principles — can deliver prosperity to developing nations. However, this is a simplistic and arguably flawed assumption when applied to Africa. Many African countries have been subjected to economic policies imposed by international financial institutions that prioritize debt repayment, privatization, and deregulation — measures that frequently exacerbate poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment. Civilian leaders, who often lack the political leverage to challenge these systems, may end up entrenching these exploitative structures, whether out of necessity or complicity.

In contrast, military leaders, unburdened by the entrenched political and economic networks that civilian leaders often rely on, may be better positioned to challenge external and internal forces that perpetuate inequality. Military leaders have the independence of mind to resist undue foreign influence and the courage to enact radical reforms. They are less likely to be beholden to elites or multinational corporations, giving them a clearer mandate to pursue national interests over personal or international ones.

A Reflection of Societal Needs: Security and Development

The case for military leadership becomes even more compelling when considering the current state of Africa. The continent is grappling with a host of pressing issues, from the rise of terrorism and insurgencies to economic inequality and environmental degradation. These challenges require a level of national unity, discipline, and strategic vision that military leadership is uniquely equipped to provide.

Terrorism, particularly from groups like Boko Haram, Al-Shabaab, and ISIS affiliates, has destabilized large regions of the continent. Military leaders, with their training in defense, strategy, and crisis management, may be best suited to address these threats. Additionally, the social and economic crises that have led to widespread poverty, unemployment, and disenfranchisement require a leader who can institute swift, decisive action — something that military leadership is capable of providing in ways that civilian politicians, often mired in political bureaucracy, cannot.

Moreover, military leaders bring a certain discipline and focus that is often absent in civilian administrations. The lack of accountability, corruption, and the fragmentation of political power have been hallmarks of many African states. These issues can be exacerbated by weak civilian leadership, where political fragmentation and competition undermine national cohesion. Military leadership, by contrast, may provide the necessary stability to pursue long-term developmental goals.

Historical Precedents and Modern Realities

Although the military’s role in past societies is often associated with war and conquest, it is important to recognize that many great empires thrived for centuries without constant warfare. For example, the Kingdom of Mali, at its height, was a center of education, culture, and trade, with rulers like Mansa Musa ushering in an era of prosperity. Similarly, the Zulu Kingdom under Shaka Zulu is remembered not only for its military innovations but also for the political stability and unity it brought to the region.

Even in the 20th century, military leaders such as Ghana’s JJ Rawlings and  Reanda's Paul Kagame remain iconic to their nations through bold, sometimes radical policies that prioritized education, healthcare, and national unity.

The AES States are providing further evidence of the independent mindedness of Military leaders.

These leaders past and current are laying the groundwork for later generations, and in many ways, they remain icons of African development.

Today, Africa faces a different kind of warfare — one that involves economic exploitation, class struggles, and social fragmentation. The modern-day colonization is not only physical but economic and cultural, where elite interests dominate the global order. Military leaders, with their direct access to state power and strategic command, may be better positioned to address the inequalities perpetuated by global capitalist systems and reclaim national sovereignty from foreign influence.

A Transition to a More Disciplined Future?

Given the unique challenges facing Africa today, it may be time to consider military leadership as a transitional phase in the pursuit of national liberation and development. This would not mean a return to the authoritarian regimes of the past, but rather a shift toward a leadership model that is more responsive to the needs of the people. Military leaders, with their focus on discipline, security, and national unity, could serve as the stabilizing force that enables the continent to navigate its current challenges.

In conclusion, the idea that civilian leadership is always preferable to military leadership is not only a neoliberal construct but also a failure to understand Africa’s historical realities and contemporary needs. While civilian leaders have a role to play in the development of Africa, military leaders, with their strategic vision and independence of thought, may be the best equipped to navigate the complex landscape of 21st-century Africa. It is time to reconsider the role of the military in shaping Africa’s future and explore how military leadership could provide a pathway to the liberation, stability, and development the continent so desperately needs.

*Ngembeni Wa Namaso is an Environmental Management Specialist and commentator on Society and Politics. He is based in Yaounde, Cameroon and holds a PhD in Forest Econmics and Management. The views expressed are his