Elections are fundamental to democratic societies, yet the diverse political landscapes of Southern Africa present both challenges and opportunities. While the region benefits from multi-party democracies, a generally peaceful environment, and regular elections that encourage political participation, it also faces significant issues such as institutional capture, disputed election outcomes, and political interference—each posing a threat to electoral integrity.

To protect democratic principles and ensure fair, credible elections across the region, it is vital to expand and support citizen election observers, as they play a key role in promoting transparency, democratic governance, and peace-building. In this context, and within the framework of the AHEAD Africa project, our partner, the Electoral Support Network of Southern Africa (ESN-SA), organised the Southern Africa Election Observation Academy from 10-12 April, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Domestic election observers face many challenges, including restrictive laws, funding shortages, and threats to their safety, which undermine their ability to maintain transparency and credibility in electoral processes. The Southern Africa Election Observation Academy addressed these challenges by providing observers with essential knowledge and skills in observation methodologies, legal frameworks, campaign finance, media monitoring, and voter education.

The Academy brought together 24 participants from 13 Southern African countries, with a focus on senior trainers from ESN-SA. Led by experienced election experts and supported by regional and international partners, the training programme fostered practical learning and collaboration, promoting cross-learning among networks. It also aimed to enhance the capacity of ESN-SA members to train others in their respective countries.

Timed just ahead of the May 2024 elections in South Africa and Madagascar, the Academy equipped participants with the tools and knowledge needed to contribute effectively to these and future electoral processes.