Symposium on Constitutionalism, Term Limits and Public Debt Accountability in Africa

Katiba Institute, in partnership with the National Democratic Institute (NDI), the African Network of Constitutional Lawyers (ANCL), Daystar University, and TISA Kenya under the Okoa Uchumi Coalition, will convene a high-level, two-day symposium on 18–19 March 2026. The symposium will explore the developing relationship between constitutionalism, presidential term limits, executive authority, and public debt accountability across Africa.

Across the continent, constitutionalism faces increasing pressure. Concerns have arisen over expanding executive power, the erosion of presidential term limits, weakening the rule of law, and rising public debt burdens. In several countries, constitutional amendments, strategic litigation, and shifting political dynamics have reshaped governance frameworks, sometimes undermining democratic accountability and the effectiveness of institutional checks and balances.

The symposium brings together scholars, practitioners, policymakers, civil society actors and youth representatives to examine key governance trends across Africa.

See event documents:

• Concept Note
• “We Owe Ourselves More” Kenya’s debt, accountability & civic participation by Amondi Awuor
• Public Debt in Kenya: A Political Economy Analysis (2010-2023)