Democracy, Governance & Civic Innovation
Pioneering solutions for accountable governance and enhanced civic engagement.
We investigate models of accountable governance and democratic renewal, from electoral integrity to decentralization reforms. By mapping institutional bottlenecks and citizen-state trust gaps, we identify opportunities for civic-tech solutions—such as digital feedback platforms and participatory budgeting tools—that deepen public participation. Our policy briefs and workshops support lawmakers and grassroots organizations in co-creating transparent, rights-based frameworks that strengthen institutions and uphold the rule of law.
Nala Center Research & Publications
Nala Center Report: Electoral Integrity in Africa (2024)
An analysis of electoral processes and recommendations for strengthening integrity.
Download file (PDF)Policy Brief: Decentralization & Local Governance
Exploring reforms to enhance local accountability and service delivery.
Download file (PDF)Workshop Report: Citizen Participation in Budgeting
Key takeaways from workshops on participatory budgeting tools.
Download file (PDF)Key Resources
Nala Center on Digital Democracy in Africa
Insights into leveraging technology for democratic participation.
Read more →Strengthening Rule of Law: Nala Center's Perspective
A position paper on upholding rights-based frameworks.
Read more →Youth and Governance: A Nala Center Dialogue Series
Summaries from a series of dialogues on youth engagement in governance.
Read more →Research Briefs
Civic Tech Innovations for Accountability
Case studies of digital tools improving citizen-state trust.
Download file (PDF)Electoral Reforms for Inclusive Governance
Policy recommendations for fair and representative electoral systems.
Download file (PDF)Bridging Trust Gaps: Citizen-State Engagement
Strategies to foster trust and collaboration between citizens and government.
Download file (PDF)Research Spotlights
The Future of African Democracies
An overview of emerging trends and challenges in democratic development.
Read more →Innovation in Public Service Delivery
Highlighting successful civic innovations in public service.
Read more →External links
African Governance Forum
A summary of Nala Center's contributions to recent governance discussions.
→Nala Center's insights on democratic transitionsTech for Good Summit
Nala Center's presentation on the role of technology in civic participation.
→How civic innovation is transforming governanceWorld Bank Blog
Nala Center's analysis on the impact of decentralization reforms.
→Decentralization as a driver of local development