A PHILOSOPHICAL ANALYSIS OF THE PHENOMENON OF STATE FAILURE IN AFRICA

Abstract

The increasing wave of state failure since the end of the Cold War has become a disturbing phenomenon. The state failure syndrome has become particularly worrisome for African states. This paper examined the causes of state failure and its consequences on Africa. It employed the method of analysis and hermeneutic to interpret and critically examine the different views on state failure. The work argue that the faulty foundation on which most African states were built is one of the major reasons why African states are the major victims of failed states in the world. A look at the recent ranking of failed states in the world reveals that African states dominate the first thirty countries in the Fragile State Index (FIS). The paper suggests that an Afro constructive approach will help in the rebuilding of Africa's weak institutions. The work therefore concludes that unless Africa's political, economic, educational, religious and social institutions are built on a strong foundation; development will continue to elude Africa.